PCB Layout Engineer I

About Powerus Powerus is building a next-generation American autonomous systems platform designed to move, protect, and sustain critical assets in high-consequence environments. The company combines advanced autonomy, manufacturing capability, operational expertise, and strategic acquisitions to support defense, national security, critical infrastructure, and commercial operations globally. Mission Our mission is to deliver resilient autonomous technologies that strengthen national security, improve operational safety, and expand the capabilities of organizations operating in complex environments. Why Join Powerus Powerus manufactures autonomous aerial systems with growing platform diversity across defense and commercial programs. Board complexity is increasing with each generation — higher layer counts, tighter impedance tolerances, denser component placement, and more constrained mechanical envelopes. This role focuses on the physical layout side of PCB development. The position sits within the engineering organization and works directly with schematic designers, mechanical engineers, and contract manufacturers. Position Overview Powerus is seeking a PCB Layout Engineer to perform component placement, trace routing, and physical design of printed circuit boards for autonomous aerial systems. The role involves translating schematic designs into production-ready layouts, managing design rules, and generating manufacturing output files under the direction of senior engineering staff. Reports to the Head of Engineering. Key Responsibilities • Perform component placement and trace routing for multi-layer PCBs using Altium Designer or equivalent EDA tools • Apply design rules for trace width, spacing, via size, and clearance per project requirements • Generate copper pours, stitching vias, and power plane assignments • Run design rule checks and electrical rule checks; resolve violations prior to review • Generate manufacturing output files including Gerber, ODB++, drill files, and assembly drawings • Coordinate with mechanical engineering on board outline, keep-out zones, and connector placement • Maintain component footprint libraries and verify land patterns against manufacturer datasheets • Support design reviews by preparing layout documentation and constraint reports • Assist with board revisions, ECO incorporation, and documentation updates Qualifications • Must be located in the United States, within commuting distance of Charlotte, NC • Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering technology, electrical engineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience • Coursework or project experience in PCB layout or electronic assembly • Familiarity with at least one PCB layout tool (Altium Designer, KiCad, Cadence Allegro, or equivalent) • Understanding of basic PCB manufacturing constraints including trace/space minimums, via types, and surface finishes • Understanding of electronic component packages and land pattern standards • U.S. Person status required (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)); this role involves access to ITAR- and EAR-controlled technical data Preferred Qualifications • Internship or hands-on experience in PCB layout or electronics assembly • Experience with Altium Designer specifically • Familiarity with IPC-7351 land pattern standards • Exposure to surface-mount manufacturing processes • Coursework in electromagnetic compatibility or transmission line theory • Active or prior U.S. security clearance What We Look For The right candidate has hands-on familiarity with PCB layout tools and an eye for the physical constraints that determine whether a board can be manufactured cleanly. Willingness to learn impedance control, stackup design, and DFM practices matters more than years of experience at this level. Equal Opportunity Statement Powerus is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and mission-driven workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.