ROLE OVERVIEW:

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented PCB Designer with expertise in designing multi-layered PCBs, soldering, testing, and integrating PCBs into larger systems. The ideal candidate should have knowledge of optics, microcontrollers, embedded systems, and MIL-STD compliance.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. PCB Design and Layout:
   • Create and edit schematic diagrams and board layouts using CAD tools such as Altium Designer, Eagle, KiCad, or OrCAD following MIL-STD-275/31000/2164 standards.
   • Optimize component placement and routing for signal integrity, thermal management, and mechanical constraints.
   • Design multi-layer PCBs, utilizing ground and power planes to reduce noise and improve EMI shielding.
   • Ensure designs adhere to DFM and DFT principles, incorporating test points and accessible debugging interfaces.


2. Photonics and Free Space Optics:
   • Implement and manage serial communication protocols (UART, SPI, I2C) and network communication protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, EtherCAT).
   • Integrate industrial communication protocols (CAN, Modbus, Profibus) for automation systems.
   • Develop solutions using wireless communication protocols (NB-IOT, Zigbee, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Sigfox, LoRaWAN) and IoT protocols (MQTT, CoAP, Mavlink).
   • Ensure communication security through best practices and security protocols.


3. Communication Protocols:
   • Design and integrate photonic systems for free-space optical communication.
   • Work with optical components such as lasers, LEDs, photodiodes, and optical fibers.
   • Develop embedded firmware to control and interface with photonic devices.
   • Conduct signal processing for optical communication, ensuring high data integrity and performance.
   • Collaborate with optical engineers to optimize system performance and reliability.


4. Prototyping and Testing:
   • Perform SMT (Surface Mount Technology), SMD (Surface-Mount Device) and SOT (Small Outline Transistor) soldering, ensuring high-quality solder joints. Experience in manual soldering and rework of surface-mount and through-hole components is essential.
   • Debug and test manufactured boards, including replacing components and troubleshooting using a hot air station and microscope.
   • Use simulation tools like LT-Spice for circuit analysis and troubleshooting.


5. Hardware Interaction and Debugging:
   • Directly interact with and control hardware components using programming languages and platform-specific libraries.
   • Utilize advanced debugging techniques to identify and resolve issues in embedded systems code.


6. Component Selection and Power Supply Design:
   • Select appropriate electronic components based on datasheets, application notes, and manufacturer recommendations.
   • Design stable and efficient power supplies to meet the voltage and current requirements of the embedded system.


7. Embedded Systems Development:
   • Design, develop, and test embedded systems using ARM Cortex series, TI, Microchip, Atmel, and Raspberry Pi platforms.
   • Write efficient and optimized code in Embedded C, C++, and Python to interact with hardware components.


8. EMI/EMS Testing:
   • Conduct Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) testing to assess signal integrity and noise levels.
   • Perform Electromagnetic Susceptibility (EMS) testing to evaluate system immunity to external electromagnetic fields.
   • Ensure designs comply with regulatory and military standards for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Photonics, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in PCB design and layout tools (Altium Designer, Eagle, KiCad, OrCAD).
• Strong knowledge of embedded systems design and development.
• Experience in designing multi-layer PCBs and applying DFM and DFT principles.
• Experience with photonics and free space optical communication systems.
• Ability to prototype, solder SMT, SMD, and SOT components, and debug hardware.
• Proficiency in Embedded C, C++, and Python programming.
• Understanding of various communication protocols (UART, SPI, I2C, TCP/IP, CAN, Modbus, Zigbee, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in a team environment.
• Experience with industrial automation and control systems.
• Familiarity with simulation tools like LT-Spice for circuit analysis.

REPORTS TO:

• Team Lead