> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3021087-principal-hw-fpga-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3021087-principal-hw-fpga-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal HW/FPGA Engineer - **Company:** RTX - **Location:** San Jose, CA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $118,300.0 - $224,900.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), Hardware Description Language, Hardware Design, Software Engineering, SystemVerilog, Verilog, VHSIC Hardware Description Language (VHDL), Fpga Hardware - **Published:** September 21, 2026 - **Apply:** https://globalhr.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/REC_RTX_Ext_Gateway/job/US-CA-SAN-JOSE-826--200-Holger-Way--BLDG-826/Principal-HW-FPGA-Engineer_01875939 ## About the Role The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance, * Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience * Experience with the architecture, implementation, and validation of telecommunications applications targeting hardware platforms (wireless/optical interfaces, signal conditioning, multi-FPGA processing fabrics, high-bandwidth interconnects, memory structures). * Proven ability to design, implement, and document FPGA designs from system and component level specifications. * Advanced experience in the development of cutting-edge hardware products (Wireless/network processing platforms, high-performance, low-power, reduced size, varied environment conditions). * Experience providing reliable cost/schedule estimates for proposal activities * Experience with planning and managing technical execution to meet schedule and cost targets * The ability to obtain a U.S. Government Top-Secret SCI (TS/SCI) security clearance with polygraph after start is required. * U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance Qualifications We Prefer: * Strong comprehension of HDL programming languages such as VHDL, Verilog or SystemVerilog. * Strong comprehension of FPGA development environments and FPGA development tool flows. * Optimization of hardware development practices using AI-assisted methodologies. * Experience working with SW development teams to interface with HW and FPGA products. * Experience with creating basic software programs that can interface to HW and FPGA components during verification. * Experience with the resolution of hardware integration and test issues in hands-on lab environments. * Clear written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in team environments. * Existing TS/SCI clearance with polygraph (Active within the last 24 months) ## Description * Lead cutting edge projects to design, implement, and optimize telecommunications solutions targeting the latest high-performance hardware platforms. * Lead internal and external partners to design and implement high-performance hardware products (HW systems, CCAs, FPGAs, antennas, cables). * Verify system and component level functionality in lab environments. * Support, enhance, and optimize existing HW products to meet customer objectives. * Provide mentorship to junior engineers * May travel up to 25% ## Related Videos - [More efficient software for more efficient microchips](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1164-more-efficient-software-for-more-efficient-microchips) - [HR & Tech: Why can't we be friends?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1493-hr-tech-why-can-t-we-be-friends) - [Hiring AI Native Talents](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100268-hiring-ai-native-talents) ## Related Articles - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs) - [How Much FAANG Companies Actually Pay Software Engineers in 2025](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/230-how-much-faang-companies-actually-pay-software-engineers-in-2025) - [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs) - [Why Attend a Developer Event in 2026?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/688-why-attend-a-developer-event-in-2026)