Job Summary
We are seeking a versatile Hardware Engineer to lead the initial power-on, functional validation, and Design Verification Testing (DVT) of our next-generation printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs). In this role, you will bridge the gap between initial design and mass production. You will be responsible for bringing new hardware prototypes to life, debugging complex electrical issues, and executing rigorous DVT plans to ensure compliance with performance, signal integrity, and environmental standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Prototype Bring-Up: Execute initial, safe power-on of prototype boards; validate power rails, sequencing, clock signals, and basic hardware functionality.
- DVT Planning & Execution: Author comprehensive Design Verification Test (DVT) plans and execute testing across electrical, signal integrity, power integrity, and thermal dimensions.
- Hardware Debugging: Isolate, root-cause, and fix complex hardware issues using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and JTAG debuggers.
- Signal & Power Integrity: Perform high-speed digital probing (e.g., PCIe, DDR, USB, Ethernet) and evaluate power rail ripple, transient response, and noise margins.
- Automation & Scripting: Develop automated test scripts (e.g., Python, LabVIEW) to control laboratory instruments and collect validation data efficiently.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Signal Integrity, Layout, and Embedded Firmware teams to resolve bugs and implement hardware modifications (reworks).
- Documentation: Generate detailed DVT reports, regulatory compliance documentation, and hardware errata sheets to inform subsequent board revisions.
Skill Requirements
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- Experience: Minimum 4+ years of hands-on experience in hardware development, board bring-up, and electrical validation/DVT.
- Lab Expertise: Advanced proficiency with high-bandwidth oscilloscopes, active probes, TDR, digital multimeters, and programmable power supplies.
- Schematic & Layout: Exceptional ability to read and interpret complex schematics and multi-layer PCB layouts (e.g., Altium, Cadence Allegro).
- Rework Skills: Strong manual soldering and rework skills for fine-pitch surface-mount components (SMD) to implement quick hardware fixes.
Other Requirements
Preferred Qualifications
- Deep understanding of switch-mode power supply (SMPS) design, loop stability, and power distribution network (PDN) validation.
- Experience with environmental testing (thermal chambers, shock, and vibration) and pre-compliance EMC/EMI testing.
- Basic familiarity with embedded firmware or bootloaders to assist in triggering hardware test modes.