Electrical Engineer

About the role

Observable Space builds precision optics and space technology for clients like NASA and the US DoD. We are looking for an Electrical Engineer to develop hardware for our telescope and observatory product lines. You will report to the Director of Electrical Engineering and work on-site in Los Angeles to bridge the gap between prototype and production.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Create and refine electronic circuits, PCBs, and wire harnesses for observatory hardware.
• Run circuit simulations and layout reviews to verify performance and manufacturability.
• Manage signal integrity, power distribution, and EMI/EMC compliance.
• Assemble and troubleshoot prototypes, including soldering, rework, and hardware modifications.
• Write and run test procedures to validate electrical subsystem performance.
• Use oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and logic analyzers to debug systems and perform root cause analysis.
• Partner with mechanical and software teams to integrate electrical components into final assemblies.
• Maintain technical documentation including block diagrams, interface definitions, and assembly drawings.
• Participate in DFM and DFR reviews to ensure designs are ready for production.

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years of professional electrical engineering experience.
• Proficiency with DC power, motor drivers, and communication protocols like I2C, SPI, CAN, Ethernet, MIPI, and PCIe.
• Experience with ADCs, microcontrollers, opamps, and transistor circuits.
• Hands-on ability to perform PCB rework, including soldering and wiring.
• Knowledge of PCB construction, transmission lines, and signal integrity.
• Experience with Altium or similar PCB design software and LTSpice or similar simulation tools.
• Understanding of wire harness testing, including hi-pot, impedance characterization, and shielding.
• Focus on design for manufacturing and field reliability.

Nice to have

• Experience with signal integrity software like Hyperlynx or SIwave.
• Familiarity with electromagnetic simulation tools such as ADS or HFSS.
• Background in DSPs and high-speed conversion circuitry exceeding 100GHz.
• Experience with high-reliability validation testing and high-speed SerDes design.
• Knowledge of mitigating mechanical failures for PCBs in high-vibration environments.
• Interest in physics, astronomy, and science.

Skills & tools

• Altium
• LTSpice
• Oscilloscopes
• Logic Analyzers
• Spectrum Analyzers
• Multimeters

Practical notes

• This is an on-site role in Los Angeles requiring a minimum of 3 days per week in the office.
• Benefits include 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision premiums.
• The company offers equity options and an unlimited PTO policy.