FPGA Logic Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: FPGA Logic Design Manager

Company: Universal Avionics Systems Corporation

Location: Duluth, GA, USA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering Management / Hardware Development

Date Posted: 2026-04-14

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads and manages the Programmable Logic Device (PLD) Development team, focusing on FPGA logic design for avionics firmware.

• Ensures adherence to DO-254 development processes throughout the entire product lifecycle, from requirements analysis to hardware integration and problem resolution.

• Drives technical excellence in PLD architecture, RTL design, verification strategy, and configuration management for avionics products.

• Responsible for resource planning, workload prioritization, and maintaining departmental policies and procedures aligned with the Business Management System (BMS).

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a senior management position within a specialized engineering function (PLD/FPGA Development) in the highly regulated avionics industry. The emphasis on DO-254 and airworthiness requirements signifies a critical need for rigorous process adherence and quality assurance. The "10+ Years" experience level, combined with the management responsibilities, suggests a strategic leadership role rather than a purely hands-on technical contributor.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Directs the architecture, design, implementation, verification, and certification of PLD solutions for avionics products, ensuring compliance with program, quality, and airworthiness standards.

• Oversees product development activities, including device selection, requirements decomposition, PLD architecture, RTL design, verification strategy, and configuration management in accordance with DO-254 and internal development processes.

• Supports proposal and capture activities by developing high-level PLD concepts and architectures, and by providing non-recurring engineering (NRE) estimates, recurring cost inputs, manpower plans, and schedule assessments.

• Plans and manages departmental resources, including staffing levels, skill mix, and workload prioritization; establishes and maintains PLD development policies, procedures, and work instructions.

• Directs and coordinates all technical activities required to execute PLD development projects, including cross-functional collaboration with systems, hardware, software, verification, and certification teams.

• Evaluates staff technical competencies and actively develops team capability through mentoring, training, and continuous improvement to enhance execution quality and overall organizational performance.

• Ensures enforcement and maintenance of PLD-related Business Management System (BMS) policies, procedures, and work instructions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a blend of technical oversight, people management, strategic planning (proposal support), and process governance (BMS compliance). The cross-functional collaboration aspect is crucial, requiring strong communication and influencing skills to interface with diverse engineering disciplines.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in FPGA/PLD logic design and development, with a significant portion focused on the avionics industry.

Required Skills:

• Extensive expertise in FPGA/PLD architecture, RTL design (e.g., VHDL, Verilog), and synthesis.

• Deep understanding and practical application of DO-254 development processes for airborne electronic hardware.

• Proven experience in requirements analysis, decomposition, and traceability for complex electronic systems.

• Proficiency in verification methodologies, including functional verification, timing analysis, and hardware integration testing.

• Strong knowledge of configuration management principles and tools for managing complex design projects.

• Experience in developing and implementing verification strategies and test plans.

• Familiarity with avionics product development cycles and airworthiness certification requirements.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific avionics systems and their associated PLD requirements.

• Familiarity with U.S. export control regulations such as ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and EAR (Export Administration Regulations).

• Experience in proposal development, including technical concept generation and NRE estimation.

• Knowledge of scripting languages for automation (e.g., Python, Perl).

• Familiarity with various FPGA vendor toolchains (e.g., Xilinx Vivado, Intel Quartus).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" experience level combined with management duties implies that candidates should have a strong track record of technical achievements and leadership. The specific mention of DO-254 and avionics is a critical filter; candidates lacking this domain expertise will likely not be considered. The preferred skills highlight areas that would give a candidate an advantage, particularly regarding export compliance and specific toolchain experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstration of successful FPGA/PLD projects managed from inception through completion, showcasing leadership and strategic decision-making.

• Case studies detailing the implementation of DO-254 processes, highlighting adherence to standards, risk mitigation, and quality assurance measures.

• Examples of architectural designs for complex avionics systems, illustrating innovation and efficiency in PLD implementation.

• Evidence of effective team management, including examples of mentoring, performance improvement plans, and successful cross-functional project execution.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of well-defined requirements analysis and decomposition processes for PLD development.

• Documentation of verification strategies, test plan development, and results reporting aligned with DO-254 standards.

• Evidence of configuration management plans and implementation for complex hardware designs.

• Demonstration of how team capabilities are assessed, developed, and maintained through training and continuous improvement initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a management role, the portfolio should emphasize leadership, strategic planning, and process governance rather than solely individual technical contributions. The focus on DO-254 and BMS compliance is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they’ve managed these processes and improved team performance and project outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Medical insurance (multiple plan options, including low-deductible PPO)

• Preventive care covered at 100%

• Affordable copays for doctor visits, urgent care, and prescriptions

• Teladoc virtual care access

• Vision coverage through VSP (includes exams, frames, and lenses)

• Dental insurance (covers preventive, basic, and major services)

• 401(k) with immediate safe harbor match (100% match on up to 4% of pay after 60 days)

• 9/80 work schedule option – every other Friday off

• Vacation, sick time, and 14 paid holidays (including a week in December)

• Tuition reimbursement

• Gym reimbursement

• Wellness programs (One Pass Select, travel assistance, employee discounts)

Working Hours:

• Standard 40 hours per week, with the option for a 9/80 work schedule (9 days of work in an 80-hour pay period, resulting in every other Friday off). This offers flexibility for work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar engineering management roles in the Atlanta, GA region, considering the specialized nature of avionics and FPGA development. The 9/80 schedule is a significant perk that enhances work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace & Defense (Avionics)

Company Size: The provided data doesn't specify exact size, but Universal Avionics is a known entity in avionics, and its parent company, Elbit Systems, is a large global defense contractor. This suggests a mid-sized division within a larger corporate structure.

Founded: Universal Avionics was founded in 1981.

Team Structure:

• The PLD Development team is part of the larger Hardware Development department.

• The Manager will likely report to a Director or VP of Engineering.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on DO-254 compliance for hardware development processes.

• Adherence to Business Management System (BMS) policies and procedures.

• Data-driven decision-making for resource allocation, project prioritization, and performance evaluation.

• Focus on continuous improvement and professional development within the engineering team.

Company Website: www.UniversalAvionics.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company operates in a highly regulated and safety-critical industry (avionics). This implies a culture that values precision, compliance, robust engineering practices, and a strong sense of responsibility. The mention of Elbit Systems indicates that the company has access to significant resources and global reach, while striving to maintain the agility of a focused division.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Engineering Management. This role is responsible for a critical technical function (PLD/FPGA design) and manages a team of engineers. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise and proven leadership capabilities. The scope includes strategic input for proposals and oversight of compliance with stringent industry standards like DO-254.

Reporting Structure: The FPGA Logic Design Manager will lead the PLD Development team and report to higher levels of engineering management (e.g., Director of Hardware Engineering, VP of Engineering). They will be responsible for managing the day-to-day technical and personnel aspects of the team, ensuring alignment with broader departmental and company objectives.

Operations Impact: The manager's effectiveness directly impacts the quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of avionics products. Successful management of PLD development ensures that critical hardware components meet stringent airworthiness and performance requirements, directly contributing to flight safety and the company’s reputation. Their input on proposals influences the company’s business development and revenue generation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deeper engagement with cutting-edge FPGA technologies, advanced verification techniques, or emerging avionics standards.

• Leadership Advancement: Progression to Director-level roles overseeing larger engineering departments or multiple functional areas within Hardware Development.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Opportunities to lead broader engineering initiatives, program management roles, or strategic technical planning roles.

• Industry Expertise: Becoming a recognized expert in DO-254 compliance and avionics hardware development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role is clearly defined within engineering management, with potential for broader leadership within the organization or deeper technical specialization within the avionics hardware domain. The emphasis on DO-254 and airworthiness provides a specialized niche for career development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "On-site," indicating a traditional office and laboratory environment. This is typical for hardware development roles requiring access to specialized equipment and close team collaboration.

Office Location(s): Duluth, GA, USA. This location is part of the greater Atlanta metropolitan area, offering access to a strong engineering talent pool and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is likely collaborative, with engineering teams working closely together on complex projects.

• Access to state-of-the-art FPGA development tools, simulation software, and potentially hardware lab equipment will be available.

• Opportunities for regular interaction with direct reports, peers in other engineering disciplines, and senior management.

• The culture likely fosters innovation within the bounds of strict safety and regulatory requirements.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week with an optional 9/80 schedule, offering significant flexibility and work-life balance benefits. This schedule is conducive to focused work periods and allows for extended weekends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for hardware engineering management roles where team oversight, lab access, and direct collaboration are critical. The 9/80 schedule is a notable perk that suggests a company culture valuing employee well-being and productivity.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter will assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit, potentially including an overview of the role and company.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A deeper dive into technical experience, leadership philosophy, team management style, and understanding of DO-254 and avionics development. Expect behavioral questions related to past leadership scenarios.

• Technical Panel Interview: A session with senior engineers or peers from related departments (e.g., Systems, Software, Verification) to evaluate technical depth, problem-solving skills, and understanding of FPGA design principles and verification methodologies.

• Executive Interview: Meeting with higher-level management (e.g., VP of Engineering) to assess strategic thinking, business acumen, and overall fit with the company's vision and long-term goals.

• Portfolio Review (if applicable): Candidates may be asked to present examples of past projects, team achievements, process improvements, or strategic initiatives managed.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on your leadership role: Highlight how you guided your team, managed resources, and made strategic decisions.

• Showcase DO-254 implementation: Provide specific examples of how you ensured compliance, managed risks, and maintained quality throughout the development lifecycle.

• Quantify achievements: Use metrics wherever possible to demonstrate improvements in team productivity, project timelines, defect reduction, or cost savings.

• Illustrate cross-functional collaboration: Explain how you worked with other departments to achieve project milestones.

Challenge Preparation:

• Expect scenario-based questions related to managing team conflicts, prioritizing competing projects, addressing performance issues, or handling technical challenges under tight deadlines.

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to implementing or improving engineering processes, particularly those related to DO-254 compliance.

• Review common FPGA design and verification challenges, and articulate how you would guide your team to solve them.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a management role, the interview process will heavily weigh leadership, strategic thinking, and process management skills alongside technical competence. The portfolio presentation should clearly articulate the impact of your leadership on team performance and project outcomes, especially within the DO-254 framework.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• FPGA Design Suites: Xilinx Vivado, Intel Quartus Prime (or similar vendor-specific IDEs).

• HDLs: VHDL, Verilog.

• Simulation & Verification Tools: ModelSim, QuestaSim, Aldec Active-HDL, or vendor-integrated simulators.

• Synthesis Tools: Synopsys, Cadence, or vendor-integrated synthesis engines.

• Static Timing Analysis (STA) Tools.

• Configuration Management Systems: Git, SVN, Perforce, or similar.

• Project Management Software: Jira, Microsoft Project, or similar for tracking tasks, resources, and schedules.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for tracking team performance metrics, project status, and compliance adherence.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding of how hardware designs integrate into larger product development workflows is beneficial.

• Scripting languages (e.g., Python, Perl, TCL) for automating design, verification, and reporting tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specific FPGA vendor tools and HDLs is essential. The manager should also be comfortable with project management and version control systems, and have a strong understanding of how to leverage scripting for process automation and efficiency gains within the design flow.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety & Compliance: Paramount importance placed on adhering to DO-254 and airworthiness standards to ensure flight safety.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable hardware designs through rigorous processes and attention to detail.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions within the constraints of safety-critical systems and regulatory requirements.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team environment where engineers work together effectively across disciplines to achieve common goals.

• Continuous Improvement: A drive to constantly refine processes, enhance skills, and improve overall team performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working seamlessly with Systems, Software, Verification, and Certification teams to ensure holistic product development.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear, direct, and respectful communication to facilitate problem-solving and decision-making.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes senior engineers guiding junior staff and sharing best practices to elevate the entire team's capabilities.

• Process-Oriented: A methodical approach to engineering, with a focus on defined workflows and documentation, particularly for DO-254 compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is shaped by the critical nature of avionics. This means a high degree of professionalism, meticulousness, and a shared commitment to safety. The "operations" aspect here refers to the efficient and compliant execution of engineering processes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Staying abreast of and ensuring strict compliance with evolving DO-254 standards and other airworthiness directives.

• Managing Technical Debt: Balancing the need for rapid development with the imperative to maintain robust, certifiable designs.

• Talent Acquisition & Retention: Attracting and keeping highly skilled FPGA engineers in a competitive market, particularly those with avionics experience.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring smooth communication and integration between PLD development and other engineering disciplines, which can sometimes have conflicting priorities or methodologies.

• Technology Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in FPGA technology, design tools, and verification methodologies while maintaining backward compatibility and certification requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced DO-254 Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific aspects of the DO-254 standard or pursue certifications.

• New FPGA Architectures & Technologies: Exposure to cutting-edge FPGA devices and advanced design techniques.

• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training in management, strategic planning, and team leadership.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending events to network, learn about industry trends, and gain insights into best practices in avionics and hardware engineering.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within Universal Avionics or Elbit Systems, or to mentor junior engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to the specialized and regulated nature of the avionics industry. Growth opportunities are tied to both technical mastery and leadership development within this niche.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing an engineering team responsible for DO-254 compliant hardware development. What are the key process controls you would implement?"

  • Preparation: Focus on your understanding of DO-254 phases (Planning, Design, Verification, Configuration Management, Quality Assurance), risk assessment, and how you delegate responsibilities.

• "How do you foster a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence within an engineering team, especially in a safety-critical environment?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your methods for performance reviews, skill development, feedback mechanisms, and encouraging innovation while maintaining compliance.

• "Imagine a critical design flaw is discovered late in the verification phase of an avionics project. How would you manage the situation, including communication with stakeholders and your team?"

  • Preparation: Emphasize structured problem-solving, root cause analysis, transparent communication, risk assessment, and mitigation planning.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Universal Avionics Systems Corporation and the avionics industry?"

  • Preparation: Research the company's products, history, parent company (Elbit Systems), and recent news. Connect your passion for aviation safety and technology to their mission.

• "How do you ensure collaboration between your PLD team and other engineering disciplines like software, systems, and verification?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your experience with cross-functional teams, communication strategies, and conflict resolution in a project context.

• "How do you measure the success of your team and the impact of your leadership on project outcomes?"

  • Preparation: Be ready to discuss key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to engineering management, process efficiency, and project delivery.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation around key projects or initiatives where you demonstrated strong leadership and process management.

• DO-254 Focus: Highlight specific examples of how you applied DO-254 principles and ensured compliance.

• Impact: Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Reduced verification time by 15% through implementation of X strategy," "Successfully managed a team of 10 engineers on Y project, delivering Z on time and within budget").

• Team Management: Discuss your approach to team building, mentoring, and performance management.

• Problem Solving: Be prepared to walk through a complex technical or managerial challenge you faced and how you resolved it.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation should focus on demonstrating leadership, strategic thinking, deep understanding of DO-254, and a collaborative approach to engineering management within the avionics sector. Practical examples and quantifiable results will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this FPGA Logic Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on recruiting.ultipro.com.

• Tailor your resume: Emphasize your leadership experience, direct management of engineering teams, and specific accomplishments related to FPGA/PLD design, verification, and DO-254 compliance in the avionics industry. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your portfolio: Gather examples of projects you managed, process improvements you implemented, and metrics demonstrating team and project success. Be ready to discuss your leadership philosophy and your approach to DO-254.

• Research Universal Avionics: Understand their products, market position, and the importance of their work in aviation safety. Familiarize yourself with the implications of ITAR/EAR if applicable to your background.

• Practice interview responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions focusing on leadership, team management, technical problem-solving, and DO-254 process adherence.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.