Hardware Engineer

About the role

This Hardware Engineer role focuses on board-level design and testing of advanced networking products. You will lead hardware development projects from concept through production release, working with microprocessor-based systems, digital hardware design, and computer networking hardware and protocols. The position emphasizes high-speed Ethernet technologies at 10Gb/s and above, with opportunities to apply RF and analog circuit design experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage assigned hardware projects through all phases from initial concept to production release, following established schedules and delivering on time.
• Develop conceptual designs and system architectures for microprocessor-based and digital hardware systems.
• Implement detailed board-level designs using schematic capture and coordinate with layout teams for PCB development.
• Perform design simulations, analyze results, and refine designs to ensure performance, reliability, and compliance with specifications.
• Test and debug hardware prototypes, including performing failure analysis on products to identify root causes and corrective actions.
• Conduct oscilloscope probing of fine-pitch components and perform rework and soldering of wires and components on densely populated PCBs.
• Analyze digital and analog signals and perform protocol analysis of digital circuits to validate correct operation and identify issues.
• Work closely with the product manager to ensure designs meet the Product Requirement Document and Technical Product Specification while achieving target product cost.
• Thoroughly test and verify products to ensure full conformance to industry standard specifications and corporate quality requirements.
• Plan and execute tests required by compliance agencies such as UL, CSA, TUV, and FCC, and diagnose and debug any compliance failures.
• Create, realize, and maintain accurate and complete product Bills of Materials (BoMs) to support smooth release to production.
• Collaborate directly with PCB designers and mechanical engineers to resolve CAD-related issues and ensure mechanical and electrical compatibility.
• Partner with software engineering teams to support software development and integration for the hardware platform.
• Coordinate with purchasing teams to procure prototype components and materials in a timely manner.
• Work with DVT (Design Verification Test) and STRE (reliability and environmental testing) teams to review, analyze, and act on test results.
• Use lab test equipment, including oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, packet generators, and frequency generators, to validate and debug hardware designs.
• Document designs, test procedures, results, and design changes thoroughly to support traceability and future maintenance.
• Prioritize and manage shifting tasks and project priorities while consistently meeting commitments and deadlines.
• Respond constructively to feedback, take ownership of responsibilities and actions, and maintain a professional demeanor in stressful situations.
• Support extended work hours when necessary to achieve project milestones and business goals.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in a hardware design position, with 5+ years preferred.
• 3+ years of experience designing and developing PCB-based systems using schematic capture and layout tools.
• Practical experience with digital hardware design at the PCB and system level.
• Knowledge of Ethernet technologies at 10Gb/s or higher and familiarity with networking hardware protocols.
• Proficiency in hardware debugging and validation using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, packet generators, frequency generators, and other signal analysis tools.
• Ability to perform board-level test, debug, and failure analysis on digital and analog circuits.
• Ability to probe fine-pitch components down to 0.4 mm pin spacing using appropriate lab tools.
• Ability to solder wires onto fine-pitch component leads and surrounding circuits and rework small components down to 0.2 x 0.1 mm in size.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to document designs and communicate clearly across functions.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize work, plan activities, and use time efficiently.
• Ability to work independently with minimal detailed supervision while taking ownership of deliverables.
• Ability to maintain a professional and courteous demeanor, including during high-pressure or stressful situations.
• Ability to manage shifting priorities, handle multiple interruptions and distractions, and still meet deadlines.
• Ability and willingness to make timely decisions, exercise sound and accurate judgment, and involve appropriate stakeholders in decision-making.
• Ability to follow instructions, respond to direction, and maintain regular, predictable attendance.
• Willingness to commit to extended work hours when needed to meet project goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) or equivalent education.
• Experience with RF and analog circuit design is a plus.
• Experience owning end-to-end hardware development from concept through production release.
• Familiarity with compliance testing processes and requirements for agencies such as UL, CSA, TUV, and FCC.
• Experience working closely with mechanical engineering and PCB design teams on CAD-related issues.
• Experience collaborating with software engineering teams on embedded systems and hardware-software integration.
• Experience working with DVT and reliability testing teams and interpreting test results.
• Demonstrated ability to interact positively and productively across functions within an organization.
• Ability to receive, apply, and act on feedback to improve performance and outcomes.
• Demonstrated commitment to meeting deadlines and project commitments, even in dynamic environments.