Principal Firmware (FPGA) Engineer


Company:	Morson Talent
Salary:	Not specified
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	RH10 9HA
Working pattern:	On-site
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	30 Sept 2026
Closing date:	30 Oct 2026

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Summary

Principal FPGA Engineer

Are you an experienced FPGA or firmware engineer looking to work on cutting-edge technology in defence, aerospace, and security?

Do you want to be part of a highly skilled team designing systems that make the world safer?

Then look no further…

We’re looking for a

Principal FPGA Engineer to join our established engineering team delivering advanced electronic systems across defence and related sectors. You’ll play a key role in developing high-performance firmware solutions used in mission-critical environments, contributing to innovative technologies across aerospace, defence, transportation, security, and space.

As a Principal Firmware Engineer, you’ll take ownership of FPGA-based design and development, working closely with multidisciplinary teams across systems, hardware, and software engineering. You’ll contribute across the full development lifecycle, from requirements through to validation, helping ensure high-quality, reliable products.

In this role, you will:

Design and develop firmware using Hardware Description Languages (VHDL, Verilog, or SystemVerilog)

Lead or contribute to firmware architecture and design decisions

Verify and validate firmware using simulation and testbench environments

Work closely with systems, hardware, and software engineers to deliver integrated solutions

Support requirements definition, design reviews, and technical decision-making

Contribute to continuous improvement of firmware processes (automation, documentation, scripting)

Use industry-standard tools for FPGA and system-on-chip development

Support integration activities, including occasional work at customer or test sites

Deliver work to agreed time, cost, and quality standards

We’re looking for a collaborative and proactive engineer who enjoys solving complex problems and can operate with a high level of autonomy.

You’ll bring:

Strong experience developing firmware for FPGA-based systems

Expertise in VHDL, Verilog, or SystemVerilog

Experience with simulation and verification tools (e.g. ModelSim, QuestaSim)

Solid understanding of digital design and hardware/software integration

Ability to contribute to or lead design and architecture activities

Strong communication skills and experience working in multidisciplinary teams

Eligibility to obtain UK Security Clearance

Nice to have:

Experience in defence, aerospace, or other safety-critical industries

Knowledge of protocols such as PCIe, Ethernet, AXI

Experience with verification methodologies (e.g. OSVVM, UVVM)

Familiarity with tools such as MATLAB, DOORS, or Linux environments

Experience mentoring junior engineers or leading small teams

You’ll benefit from world-class training, development opportunities, and the chance to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry.

You’ll also receive a package that includes:

Competitive salary

Coaching, training, and ongoing career development

Pension with employer contributions

Generous holiday allowance, increasing with service

Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working and early finish on Fridays

Due to the nature of this role, candidates must be eligible for UK Security Clearance. This includes providing evidence of identity, right to work in the UK, and employment/education history. Some roles may require additional vetting.

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