Hardware Design Engineer

About the role

You will own the end-to-end design and validation of high-performance mixed-signal hardware for next-generation defense and aerospace systems. This role centers on creating robust, manufacturable solutions that meet stringent environmental and reliability standards. You will translate complex algorithmic concepts into functional electronic hardware while adhering to strict safety and regulatory requirements. Collaboration with cross-functional teams will drive innovation from concept to prototype and beyond. You will ensure all designs are scalable, testable, and aligned with program timelines. Your work will directly support critical missions by enabling advanced sensor and processing platforms. You will maintain detailed documentation to preserve institutional knowledge and facilitate future iterations.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Architect and implement mixed-signal electronic solutions that integrate analog, digital, and RF components within strict power and thermal budgets.
• Develop board-level schematics, layout constraints, and verification protocols to ensure signal integrity and power integrity across all operating conditions.
• Define comprehensive test plans and validation procedures for prototype hardware, covering functionality, stress, and environmental testing.
• Perform detailed tolerance and sensitivity analysis to evaluate the impact of component variations on system performance and reliability.
• Conduct form, fit, and function assessments to confirm that prototypes meet mechanical and electrical specifications before production release.
• Execute system-level power measurements and thermal characterization to optimize energy efficiency and cooling strategies in confined environments.
• Interface with external vendors and internal stakeholders to coordinate component sourcing, fabrication, and assembly activities.
• Analyze high-speed digital interfaces such as PCIe and SERDES, ensuring compliance with industry standards and system-level timing budgets.
• Utilize advanced CAD tools, including Allegro, to model, simulate, and debug complex integrated circuits and printed circuit assemblies.
• Support the development of novel mixed-signal architectures tailored for quantum computing and advanced sensor applications.
• Document design decisions, test results, and verification outcomes to support regulatory compliance and future design reviews.
• Mentor junior engineers by providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of rigorous analysis and continuous improvement.
• Lead root cause analysis for hardware failures, implementing corrective actions that enhance yield and long-term reliability.
• Coordinate with manufacturing teams to optimize testability and streamline production processes without compromising performance.

Requirements

• Hold a BS or MS degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related scientific discipline with a strong focus on hardware design.
• Possess direct experience managing complex designs through the full hardware development cycle, from initial specification to final testing.
• Demonstrate proficiency in system bring-up and debugging of sophisticated embedded systems under tight deadlines.
• Show expertise in high-speed digital design techniques, including PCIe, SERDES, HDMI, and associated signaling protocols.
• Apply CAD tools, especially Allegro, to perform accurate design, layout, and simulation activities.
• Use computers, engineering workstations, and advanced electronic test equipment with confidence and precision.
• Communicate effectively in both oral and written formats while interacting with vendors, colleagues, and management.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment where adaptability and attention to detail are essential.
• Work seamlessly within multidisciplinary teams and independently when required to meet project objectives.
• Maintain strict compliance with U.S. citizenship requirements and eligibility for government security clearance.

Nice to have

• Apply a solid working knowledge of fundamental high-speed electrical engineering and circuit design principles to solve challenging problems.
• Leverage familiarity with power integrity concepts such as decoupling strategies, transient response, and power distribution network design.
• Utilize understanding of signal integrity topics including crosstalk, insertion and return loss, termination techniques, and BGA breakout strategies.
• Incorporate knowledge of fabrication material selection to optimize performance in demanding environments.
• Employ expertise in test procedures and equipment, particularly RF measurement tools such as VNAs and TDRs, during validation phases.
• Produce clear, concise technical documentation using Microsoft Office applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Practical notes

This is a Regular full-time position based in Malibu, California. The role requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a US government security clearance. Candidates must be fully mobile to work within confined spaces and possess both visual and hearing acuity to perform essential job functions safely.