FPGA Engineer Intern

North Logan, UT

Internship

C4ISR Systems

Student (College)

Job ID: 6738
Date Posted: March 5, 2026

The C4ISR Systems Division at the Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) delivers mission-critical solutions in cyber operations, information architecture, strategic deterrence, and ISR. We specialize in modular open architecture designs that integrate multiple data sources, enable tactical network communication, and deliver outputs to diverse user interfaces.

SDL is also a leader in advanced embedded and hardware-accelerated computing, collaborating with government partners to develop high-performance, secure digital systems. These efforts include FPGA-based processing, real-time data handling, and hardware/software co-design to support mission success.

This position has the potential of continued employment or transition to student/full-time employment requiring security clearance eligibility.

Position Description
We are seeking a motivated FPGA Firmware Engineering Intern to join our team for the summer of 2026. In this role, you will assist in the design, development, and testing of FPGA firmware supporting secure, high-performance embedded systems. This is an excellent opportunity for students to gain practical experience in digital design while contributing to mission-critical solutions in defense and national security.

Key Responsibilities
• Assists in the design, implementation, and verification of FPGA firmware using hardware description languages (VHDL, Verilog, or SystemVerilog)
• Supports the development and maintenance of simulation and testbench environments
• Assists in creating and maintaining technical documentation, including design descriptions, timing diagrams, interface definitions, and test reports
• Collaborates with cross-functional teams, including systems engineers, software developers, and government customers, to support system integration
• Supports implementation of digital interfaces and protocols (e.g., SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet)
• Learns about FPGA development processes, including RTCA/DO-254
• Assists in configuration management and version control of firmware artifacts

Required Qualifications
• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related technical field, e.g., electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or a closely related discipline
• Coursework or project experience in digital logic design and computer architecture
• Familiarity with at least one HDL (VHDL, Verilog, or SystemVerilog)
• Academic or project experience with FPGA development, simulation, or digital system design
• Basic understanding of combinational/sequential logic, finite state machines, and timing concepts
• Basic understanding of Git and remote repositories such as GitHub, GitLab, or equivalent
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance

Preferred Qualifications
• Internship, research, or academic project experience involving FPGA or embedded systems development
• Experience with FPGA toolchains such as Xilinx Vivado, Intel Quartus, or Microchip Libero
• Exposure to simulation tools such as ModelSim, Xcelium, or Verdi
• Familiarity with embedded processors (ARM, MicroBlaze) and hardware/software integration
• Experience with digital communication protocols and high-speed interfaces
• Knowledge of basic signal integrity, timing analysis, and constraints development
• Exposure to configuration management, automated testing, or continuous integration for firmware

SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.

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FPGA Engineer Intern

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