PCB Designer II

Job Description

PCB Designer II (Mid-Level)

Industry: Aerospace / Avionics

Employment Type: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports To: Director of Hardware Engineering

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced PCB Designer II to design and develop complex printed circuit boards for avionics systems. This position requires a high degree of independence and a strong understanding of signal integrity, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and electrostatic discharge (ESD) principles.

The ideal candidate will have experience with multi-layer PCB layouts, high-speed digital and analog circuits, differential pair routing, impedance control, and trace length matching. This role involves collaborating with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure high-quality designs, successful system integration, and continuous improvement throughout the PCB development lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

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• Design and develop complex, multi-layer PCB layouts for avionics systems, including high-speed digital, analog, RF, and power circuits.
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• Apply advanced signal and power integrity constraints, including differential pair routing, impedance control, controlled trace lengths, and propagation delay considerations.
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• Develop and maintain electrical schematics of moderate complexity, ensuring proper component selection, connectivity, and alignment with system requirements.
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• Ensure compliance with EMC/EMI and ESD protection standards throughout the design lifecycle.
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• Prepare and release complete fabrication and assembly documentation, including Gerber files, ODB++, drill files, drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs).
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• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and manufacturing engineering teams to develop optimal design solutions.
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• Participate in engineering design reviews, Design for Manufacturing (DFM), and Design for Assembly (DFA) evaluations.
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• Support PCB prototyping, debugging, testing, and design modifications based on production feedback.
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• Maintain and enhance PCB libraries, components, and design templates within CAD/Altium environments.
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• Ensure designs meet aerospace industry standards, internal quality processes, and configuration control requirements.
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• Work closely with manufacturing teams, including SMT production, to support builds and resolve design-related issues.
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• Perform root cause analysis of PCB-related issues and assist with corrective actions.
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• Provide input regarding PCB layout timelines, design complexity, and project planning.
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• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure designs meet program requirements.
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• Identify opportunities for process improvements and contribute to engineering best practices.
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Required Qualifications

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• Associate degree, PCB Design technical certification, or equivalent experience in electronics or circuit design.
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• Minimum 4 years of professional PCB layout experience , preferably in high-reliability or regulated environments.
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• Experience in aerospace or avionics PCB design is a plus.
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• Working knowledge of IPC standards, including IPC-2221, IPC-7351, and IPC-A-600.
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• Experience with high-speed PCB design principles, including differential pair routing, impedance control, and signal integrity.
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• Proficiency with industry-standard ECAD tools, including Altium Designer and/or Cadence Allegro/OrCAD .
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• Familiarity with rigid-flex and/or high-density interconnect (HDI) PCB technologies.
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• Strong understanding of PCB fabrication and assembly processes.
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• Knowledge of EMI/EMC design practices and ESD protection methods.
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• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and manufacturing specifications.
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• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
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• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional engineering and manufacturing teams.
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Preferred Qualifications

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• Previous experience designing PCBs for aerospace, avionics, or other high-reliability electronic systems.
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• Experience working within structured quality management systems such as AS9100 or ISO 9001.
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• Familiarity with SMT manufacturing processes, PCB troubleshooting, and production support.
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• Experience contributing to design reviews, process improvements, and engineering best practices.
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Physical Requirements

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• Primarily sedentary position, with occasional walking and standing.
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• Ability to lift or move up to 10 pounds occasionally.
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• Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate computers, keyboards, and specialized design tools.
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• Visual acuity sufficient to review detailed schematics, PCB layouts, and technical drawings.
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• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and through virtual meetings.
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• Ability to access laboratory and production areas, including SMT manufacturing environments, when needed.
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Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to maintaining a professional, inclusive, and drug-free workplace.