PCB Designer II

Industry: Aerospace / Avionics

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

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

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

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

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are committed to maintaining a professional, inclusive, and drug-free workplace.