FPGA & VHDL Engineer

Randstad Cpe London; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering company in the UK is seeking an experienced Electronics & Firmware Engineer for a long-term contract on an international rail project. You'll develop cutting-edge electronic control systems, leveraging your expertise in FPGA/VHDL programming and PCB design. Join a collaborative team with a focus on innovation and safety-critical systems. This role offers a unique opportunity to impact global rail infrastructure.

Qualifications

• 5+ years' experience in design and testing of electronic control equipment.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize effectively.
• Excellent communicator skilled in presenting technical issues.

Responsibilities

• Develop and debug FPGA firmware in VHDL.
• PCB design and development for the rail industry.
• Ensure compliance with rail industry standards.

Skills

FPGA / VHDL programming

Electrical & Electronic CAD systems

Digital & analogue electronics design

PCB manufacture

Knowledge of EMC design principles

Education

Degree in Electronic Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Altium

Job description

OUTSIDE IR35

Are you an experienced Electronics & Firmware Engineer looking for your next big challenge? This is a fantastic opportunity to join a world-class engineering team working on a high-profile locomotive re-power project for Hong Kong.

This long-term contract (Outside IR35) will see you playing a key role in delivering cutting-edge electronic control systems for a flagship rail engineering programme. You’ll be working alongside highly skilled professionals in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment, applying your expertise to solve complex technical challenges and directly impact the success of an international rail project.

Job Purpose

To provide electronic and firmware engineering expertise to engineering and project teams, delivering high-performance, reliable electronic control systems for a locomotive re-power project.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree (or equivalent) in Electronic Engineering
• 5+ years’ experience in design, development and testing of electronic control equipment hardware (rail industry preferred)
• Proficient in Electrical & Electronic CAD systems (e.g. AutoCAD, Altium)
• Strong skills in FPGA / VHDL programming & development
• Solid background in digital & analogue electronics hardware design and PCB manufacture
• Knowledge of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) design principles

Essential Attributes

• Positive, self-motivated, and proactive with a strong sense of ownership
• Able to work independently, prioritise effectively, and make sound decisions
• Excellent communicator, able to clearly present technical issues
• Competent in standard office tools (Microsoft Office suite)
• Flexible and willing to support projects at different locations, including abroad

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, program, debug, and test FPGA firmware in VHDL
• Implement modifications to FPGA software in response to design changes/issues
• Integrate FPGA software with other system components and optimise performance
• PCB design & development for the rail industry (schematic capture, layout, manufacturing)
• Amend and troubleshoot PCB designs using Altium
• Ensure compliance with rail industry standards (e.g., BS EN50155)
• Produce and review technical documentation: specifications, design data, test plans, reports
• Support electronic system validation, including type, routine and compliance testing
• Investigate failures, determine root cause, and present findings
• Provide risk evaluation and mitigation evidence for electronic safety hazards
• Specify and use test equipment for monitoring electronic systems in operation
• Actively contribute to continuous improvement within engineering processes

Quality, Safety & Customer Focus

Adhere to company and statutory Quality, Health & Safety, and Environmental policies

Investigate and report on failed/defective components in line with procedures

Build and maintain positive customer relationships, enhancing the company’s reputation as a world-class supplier of railway vehicle services

Why Join?

This isn’t just another contract—it’s a chance to be part of a landmark rail project with international reach. You’ll be at the forefront of innovation in electronics and firmware engineering, with the opportunity to apply your expertise on complex, safety-critical systems.

If you’re ready to take on a long-term contract where your skills will make a tangible impact on global rail infrastructure, we want to hear from you.