Hardware Engineer III

Innoflight LLC • San Diego, CA

29d • $120,000 - $145,000 • Onsite

About The Position

As a Hardware Engineer III, you’ll take technical ownership of complex electronic hardware that powers spacecraft subsystems. You’ll lead the design and development of high-speed, analog, digital, and power electronics, driving embedded board-level solutions from concept through integration. This role blends deep technical expertise with cross-functional leadership—partnering with software, firmware (HDL), mechanical, and PCB layout teams to deliver high-reliability hardware ready for orbit. You’ll also provide technical guidance, mentor engineers, and ensure that every design meets mission-critical performance standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline (Master’s preferred).
• 5 or more years of experience designing and developing complex embedded and board-level electronic hardware.
• Strong background in high-speed digital and analog circuit design, including FPGAs, microprocessor-based systems, and memory architectures.
• Experience with schematic capture and PCB design tools such as Altium, OrCAD, or HyperLynx.
• Proficiency in signal and power integrity analysis, impedance control, and EMI/EMC compliance.
• Familiarity with radiation testing, space-grade component selection, and thermal management.
• Hands-on experience developing test automation scripts (Python, PowerShell) or reference designs (Linux, VHDL).
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
• Ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead Advanced Hardware Design: Drive the design, validation, and debugging of analog, power, and embedded board-level electronic systems.
• Develop High-Speed Interfaces: Design Rocket I/O, Ethernet, PCI-e, DDR, RS-422, and LVDS interfaces for FPGAs, microcontrollers, and memory devices used in spacecraft systems.
• Design Power Systems: Develop linear and high-efficiency switching power supplies to meet demanding board-level voltage and current requirements.
• Guide PCB Layout: Provide expert direction for stack-up configuration, impedance control, signal and power integrity, and EMI/EMC considerations.
• Perform Advanced Analyses: Conduct SPICE simulations and signal/power integrity analysis to ensure robust operation in radiation and space environments.
• Collaborate Across Disciplines: Work closely with software, firmware, mechanical, and systems teams to achieve seamless hardware integration and performance alignment.
• Document and Review: Develop and review detailed design documentation, including specifications, Interface Control Documents (ICDs), test procedures, and user manuals.
• Support Manufacturing and Test: Lead troubleshooting, system integration, and test automation efforts using Linux, Python, PowerShell, or VHDL reference designs.
• Ensure Compliance: Oversee component selection and validation to meet radiation, EMI/EMC, and space-grade reliability requirements.
• Mentor and Lead: Provide technical guidance to junior engineers and contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies.

Benefits

• 401(k) with 3% company match (automatic enrollment)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, HSA & life insurance
• 10 paid holidays + 120 hours PTO (starting in year one)
• Access to ancillary benefits such as critical illness, accident, disability, legal and pet insurance.
• Flexible Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off—whether you use it to recharge, work on a passion project, or spend time with family, the choice is yours.
• Continuous Learning & Development: We’re serious about professional development. From tuition reimbursement to internal "Ask Me Anything" sessions and weekly “Lunch & Learns,” we make learning a core part of the job.
• Mission-Driven Culture: We aren’t just building tech—we’re enabling the next era of space exploration. Our Culture Ambassadors help lead initiatives around inclusion, positivity, recognition, and transparency. Here, your voice is heard, your work is respected, and your individuality is celebrated.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level