Systems Design Engineer III - Missions Processing

Frontgrade Technologies; Colorado Springs (CO); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401K match

Compressed work schedule

Career growth

Tuition reimbursement

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Job summary

Frontgrade Technologies seeks a Systems Design Engineer to lead hardware integration for space and defense products, bridging concept to reality for FPGA- and processor-based SBCs, I/O modules, and power supplies to form a reliable, mission-ready system.

You will develop integration and verification plans, collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and firmware teams, and communicate technical approaches to customers while supporting bids and design reviews for space-qualified solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or 9+ years of experience may be considered in lieu.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in a specialized functional discipline; 3 years with a Masters.
• Proven experience in hardware integration for complex electronic systems, aerospace or defense.
• Strong understanding of modular architectures, SBCs, high-speed digital design, and power distribution.
• Hands-on experience with FPGA or processor-based SBCs, power supplies, and mixed-signal interfaces.
• Ability to interpret and validate interface specifications, schematics, and system block diagrams.
• FPGA design/programming is desirable.
• Ability to obtain and/or maintain a Security Clearance.
• Experience in integrated electronic system design.

Responsibilities

• Lead system-level integration from circuit cards to box-level solutions.
• Assess electrical and logical compatibility to meet design requirements.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and firmware teams on SBCs and power modules.
• Develop and execute integration and verification plans (functional, environmental, performance).
• Troubleshoot system-level anomalies with root-cause analysis for corrective actions.
• Interface with customers to communicate approaches and manage expectations.
• Support bids and proposals by developing architectures, technical volumes, and feasibility assessments.
• Participate in design reviews to ensure robust, space-qualified solutions.

Skills

System integration

FPGA/processor SBCs

High-speed digital design

Power distribution

Interface standards

Root cause analysis

Customer communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

9+ years of experience in lieu

Job description

Job Description

The Systems Design Engineer specializes in circuit card, module, and box-level design and integration. You’ll be the bridge between concept and reality for our space and military grade products and solutions. Your expertise will ensure that FPGA and processor-based single board computers, I/O and RF modules, power supplies, and supporting electronics integrate seamlessly, functioning as a unified, reliable system. Your work will directly influence mission success.

Responsibilities

• Lead system-level integration of hardware, from individual circuit cards to fully assembled box-level solutions.
• Assess electrical and logical compatibility between subsystems, verifying that inputs, outputs, and interfaces meet design and mission requirements.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and firmware teams to ensure FPGA- and processor-based SBCs, power supplies, and I/O modules operate as intended.
• Develop and execute integration and verification plans, including functional, environmental, and performance testing.
• Troubleshoot and resolve system-level anomalies, using root cause analysis to drive corrective actions.
• Interface directly with customers to communicate technical approaches, manage expectations, and drive alignment
• Support bids and proposals for RFQs/RFPs by developing architectures, technical volumes, and feasibility assessments
• Participate in design reviews, providing technical insight to ensure robust, space-qualified solutions.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field. OR (9) years of experience may be considered in lieu of a Bachelors Degree.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in a specialized functional discipline. OR (3) years of experience may be considered w/ a Masters Degree.
• Proven experience in hardware integration for complex electronic systems, ideally in aerospace or defense.
• Strong understanding of modular system architectures, SBCs, high-speed digital design, and power distribution.
• Hands-on experience with FPGA or processor-based SBCs, power supplies, and mixed-signal interfaces.
• Ability to interpret and validate interface specifications, schematics, and system block diagrams.
• Review component requirements and identify suitable alternatives or replacements.
• FPGA design/programming desirable
• Ability to obtain and/or maintain a Security Clearance
• Experience in integrated electronic system design

About Frontgrade

ABOUT US

At Frontgrade, we build mission-critical electronics that perform without compromise in the world’s most demanding environments, from deep space to national defense. With decades of proven heritage, we deliver high-reliability components, subsystems, and integrated solutions trusted when failure is not an option. But our strength is not just in what we build. It is in the people who make it possible. From engineers and product managers to sales teams, marketers, and skilled manufacturing professionals, every role plays a direct part in enabling missions that protect, explore, and connect our world. We move with purpose, collaborate across disciplines, and take pride in delivering solutions our customers rely on in the highest-stakes environments. If you want your work, whatever your specialty, to contribute to something bigger, you will find your place at Frontgrade.

Why Work for Us

We believe mission success starts with taking care of our people. That’s why we offer competitive health, wealth, and wellbeing benefits from day one. You’ll also find real opportunities to learn, grow, and advance, whether you’re building technical expertise, leading teams, or expanding into new areas. Here, your growth is part of the mission.

Additional Information

This position may require access to technology, materials, software or hardware that is controlled by either ITAR or EAR U.S. export laws. As a condition of any job offer, in order to be employed in this position, you may need to obtain a U.S. Government export license(s), as required by law.

Other Benefits Include

• Immediate Medical (FSA and HSA), Dental, and Vision
• 401K Match with 100% immediate vesting
• 9X80 compressed work schedule for qualifying roles
• Career Opportunity and Growth
• Tuition Reimbursement/Student Loan Repayment
• Generous PTO and 11 paid Holidays per year (9 designated holidays and 2 floating holidays)
• 8 weeks of 100% Paid Family Leave