Lead FPGA / Hardware Engineer

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. • $110K — $165K *
Wilmington, NC 28403In-Person
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in FPGA design, verification, or digital hardware development.
  • Minimum of 2+ years of experience leading a technical team.
  • Hands-on experience with VHDL, SystemVerilog, UVM, or similar languages.
  • Ability to troubleshoot FPGA and hardware issues through simulation and debugging.
  • Experience supporting hardware or FPGA test campaigns.
  • Strong communication skills for cross-functional teamwork.

Responsibilities

  • Support FPGA design, simulation, integration, and test activities for electronic systems.
  • Prepare and review FPGA design and test documentation including specifications and traceability.
  • Participate in FPGA design flow activities, including synthesis and timing analysis.
  • Support development of engineering test fixtures and tools for system testing.
  • Lead a small team of FPGA and hardware engineers while coordinating tasks and schedules.
  • Communicate technical progress and risks to program management and stakeholders.
  • Foster a collaborative and high-performance team environment.

Benefits

  • Competitive pay and comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage.
  • 401(k) with employer match and professional development support.
  • Flexible work environment that emphasizes teamwork and innovation.
Full Job Description
Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking an FPGA / Hardware Team Lead to support the development of advanced instrumentation and control electronic systems for the nuclear power industry. This role will support FPGA design, verification, simulation, integration, and test activities for complex control system hardware used in a highly regulated, safety-focused environment.

This is a technical leadership role for an engineer who can contribute directly to FPGA development and verification while also helping guide execution for a small engineering team. The selected candidate will be involved in design and test specifications, FPGA simulation, integration support, development of test hardware and software, and execution of informal and formal test campaigns.

This role is best suited for someone who enjoys staying technically involved while also taking ownership of team coordination, delivery commitments, and engineering quality.

The position may be based in Wilmington, NC, or performed remotely, with approximately 10 to 15% travel during testing, integration, and key design phases. All candidates must be U.S. Citizens or U.S. Permanent Residents.

Key Responsibilities:

FPGA Design, Verification & Technical Execution
  • Support FPGA development, simulation, integration, and test activities for instrumentation and control electronic systems.
  • Develop, update, and review FPGA design documentation, including design specifications, test specifications, requirements, and traceability documentation.
  • Perform FPGA design and verification using languages and methodologies such as VHDL, SystemVerilog, and UVM.
  • Support simulation, debugging, root cause analysis, and resolution of FPGA design or verification issues.
  • Participate in FPGA design flow activities, including design implementation, simulation, synthesis, timing analysis, integration, and test support.
  • Support development and execution of informal and formal test campaigns for FPGA and hardware products.
  • Prepare, develop, and support engineering test fixtures, test tools, simulations, and related hardware/software used in the development of I&C electronic systems.

Team Leadership & Execution
  • Provide technical leadership and day-to-day coordination for a team of FPGA, hardware, and test engineers.
  • Own sprint execution, task coordination, delivery commitments, and schedule visibility for assigned work.
  • Help translate program requirements and technical objectives into actionable engineering tasks.
  • Drive accountability, remove roadblocks, and support consistent progress across design, verification, integration, and test activities.
  • Guide and mentor engineers by providing technical direction, leveraging subject matter experts, and helping the team make sound engineering decisions.
  • Balance technical risk, program priorities, and resource needs to support on-time, high-quality delivery.

Customer & Stakeholder Interface
  • Serve as a day-to-day technical point of contact for program management, customers, and internal stakeholders.
  • Communicate progress, risks, blockers, and mitigation plans clearly and professionally.
  • Support technical interchange meetings, sprint reviews, design reviews, test readiness reviews, and milestone reviews.
  • Coordinate across FPGA, hardware, systems, software, and test organizations to ensure alignment across the full development lifecycle.

Technical Oversight & Risk Management
  • Review technical approaches, design decisions, verification plans, and test strategies with the engineering team.
  • Identify technical risk areas early and support mitigation planning with senior engineers and subject matter experts.
  • Ensure engineering work follows applicable QDSS processes, customer expectations, and quality standards.
  • Support integration planning, test readiness, troubleshooting, and issue resolution during key phases of development.
  • Foster a collaborative, high-performance team environment focused on technical quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
  • 5+ years of experience in FPGA design, FPGA verification, digital hardware development, hardware testing, or related engineering work.
  • Minimum of 2+ years prior experience leading a small technical team, mentoring engineers, coordinating sprint execution, or managing technical task priorities.
  • Hands-on experience with FPGA design and verification using VHDL, SystemVerilog, UVM, or similar languages and methodologies.
  • Working knowledge of FPGA and hardware development lifecycles, including requirements, design, verification, validation, integration, and test documentation.
  • Ability to troubleshoot FPGA, hardware, or verification issues through simulation, lab integration, debugging, and root cause analysis.
  • Experience supporting formal or informal test campaigns for hardware, FPGA, or electronic systems.
  • Ability to provide technical guidance, coordinate engineering tasks, mentor team members, or lead technical workstreams.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to work with program leadership, customers, stakeholders, and cross-functional engineering teams.
  • Experience working in a structured, regulated, safety-critical, mission-critical, or quality-driven engineering environment.
  • U.S. citizenship or U.S. permanent residency is required.
  • Ability to travel approximately 10 to 15% during testing, integration, and key design phases as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in nuclear, energy, aerospace, defense, avionics, industrial controls, or another regulated engineering environment.
  • Experience with instrumentation and control electronic systems, real-time embedded hardware, safety-critical controls, or complex electronic systems.
  • Experience with FPGA development and simulation tools such as Quartus, Vivado, ModelSim, Questa, or similar tools.
  • Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python, Tcl, or similar tools used for automation, simulation, test, or workflow efficiency.
  • Experience supporting technical reviews, design reviews, test readiness reviews, milestone reviews, or customer-facing technical meetings.
  • Personnel management experience, including coaching, performance feedback, training plans, or employee development.
  • Experience in adoption and/or integration of emerging technologies (e.g., generative AI, automation platforms, digital assistants) into day-to-day operations for continuous improvement.

The QDSS Advantage:

At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You'll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future.

What You'll Find Here
  • Work That Matters - Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact.
  • Growth That's Supported - Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement.
  • A Culture That Works - A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued.

Benefits Include
  • Competitive pay, comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, professional development support, and a flexible, friendly workplace.


Full compensation package is based on candidate experience and certifications

Pay Ranges

$110,000-$165,000 USD

About Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. Careers

Joining Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. presents an unparalleled opportunity to become part of an elite team of professionals specializing in defense technology and solutions. This is a pivotal time to contribute to a company that values innovation, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.

Career Opportunities and Growth

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and professional interests. The company is dedicated to the professional growth and continuous career development of all team members. From leadership roles to entry-level positions, Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. is actively hiring individuals who are passionate, driven, and ready to contribute to high-stakes projects.

Innovative Work Environment

At Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc., innovation is at the core of everything they do. The team is tasked with developing advanced solutions that keep them at the forefront of the defense industry. Employees at Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries to achieve the best results.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career, Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. offers robust internship programs that provide hands-on experience in a highly supportive environment. Internships are a great way to build your resume, develop new skills, and gain valuable industry insight. Many interns move on to full-time positions, making this a great gateway to a career with Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.

Diversity and Inclusion

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. The company believes that diversity fuels innovation and creates a stronger team. Diversity training is integral to their culture, ensuring that all employees have the opportunity to thrive.

Benefits and Culture

The culture at Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. is built on a foundation of respect and integrity. Employees enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. These benefits include health care, retirement plans, and paid time off, among others. The supportive culture ensures that everyone feels valued and can perform at their best.

Networking and Professional Development

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. emphasizes the importance of professional development and networking. Employees are encouraged to engage in continuous learning and are provided with numerous opportunities for advancement. Career development programs and leadership training are just a few of the resources available to help employees meet their career goals.

Join the Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. Team

Explore the career pages to find open positions that match your skills and interests. Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. is looking for dedicated, curious, and innovative team players. Start your journey by applying today and prepare for a series of interviews where you can showcase your capabilities.

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Explore Jobs at Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.

Whether you're seeking a position in engineering, management, or support, Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc. has opportunities that can lead to a rewarding career. Join a team that is dedicated to protecting and empowering global operations through innovative solutions and technologies.
Learn more about Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.
Industry
Aerospace & Defense
* Ladders Estimates

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