Location: Columbia, MD (Relocation Required)

Relocation Assistance if needed + Sign-On Bonus Offered

Work Setting: On-site with flexible 9/80 arrangement

Compensation: $1750,000– $232,000 base salary (depending on experience)

Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with match, PTO, parental leave, flexible schedule

Security Clearance: Must be eligible for U.S. Security Clearance

Position Overview

A leading defense technology innovator is seeking a Hardware & FPGA Manager to lead a growing team focused on advanced secure wireless communication systems. This is a hands-on technical leadership role overseeing embedded firmware and FPGA development for mission-critical radio platforms used by military and first responders.

Relocation to Columbia, Maryland is required for this position, and relocation assistance and a sign-on bonus are provided.

What You’ll Do

• Lead, manage, and mentor a team of FPGA and firmware engineers
• Oversee project schedules, budgets, and resource planning
• Drive FPGA development standards, process improvements, and technical quality
• Collaborate cross-functionally with systems, product, and test teams
• Provide hands-on architectural direction and technical support
• Conduct performance reviews, define development plans, and drive hiring
• Ensure project deliverables align with national security requirements

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree + 9 years of experience, or Master’s + 7 years (or 13+ years in lieu of a degree)
• Strong background managing engineering teams and owning technical delivery
• Experience with FPGA design (VHDL/Verilog) and digital hardware architecture
• Proven experience in embedded systems development and cross-functional team leadership
• U.S. Citizenship (required for security clearance eligibility)

Preferred Experience

• Secure communication or cryptographic system development (Type 1/Type 3)
• Wireless radio product development in defense or aerospace sectors
• SystemVerilog, UVM/OVM, or formal verification methods
• Experience with DoD certifications and secure product lifecycle
• Background at defense primes or clearance-eligible FPGA design firms



What You’ll Get

• Competitive base salary: $175,000 – $232,000, depending on experience
• Sign-on bonus and relocation assistance
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance from day one
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off, paid holidays, and parental leave