Principal Electrical Engineer (Onsite)
About The Position
The Resilient Connectivity Products (RCP) Hardware Technologies department is looking for a Principal Hardware Electrical Engineer to join the exciting development of next-generation communication solutions in Cedar Rapids, IA. We are focused on high-speed digital electronics within communication products that are critical to the defense of our nation, such as sophisticated software-defined radios and data links designed for use in various ground, airborne, and space applications. We are looking for a strong technical leader with an action-oriented mindset, who can drive the architecture and development of high-speed digital circuit card assemblies (CCAs), applying expert-level knowledge of FPGAs, processors, and memory to deliver next-generation products. This role requires advanced expertise in PCB design, signal integrity, and power integrity to drive high-density, high-speed circuit designs from conception to production. The ability to balance hands-on technical expertise in hardware design and the project management acumen to manage scope, schedule, budgets, and stakeholder reporting is also critical to this role.
Requirements
- Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience
- 8+ years of hardware engineering experience with deep expertise in high-speed digital design and complex multilayer PCBs (8+ layers) supporting processors, FPGAs, memory, and high-speed interfaces (e.g., PCIe, Ethernet, DDR, SERDES).
- Demonstrated experience leading circuit card development from concept through production, including requirements definition, schematic capture, layout oversight, prototype build, verification, and system integration.
- Advanced proficiency with industry PCB design tools such as Xpedition, Cadence Allegro, or Altium Designer.
- Hands-on experience performing signal integrity and power integrity analysis using tools such as HyperLynx, ADS, SPICE, or similar simulation platforms.
- Strong understanding of DFM/DFT principles, PCB fabrication processes, controlled impedance design, and board bring-up activities.
- Proven ability to debug and resolve complex hardware issues during integration and qualification testing.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to effectively present technical concepts and design trade-offs to cross-functional teams, leadership, and customers
Nice To Haves
- Advanced knowledge of high-speed protocols, such as PCIe, Ethernet, and high-speed memory interfaces
- Control Account Manager (CAM) experience with knowledge of the Earned Value Management System (EVMS) principles and practices for performing cost, schedule, and risk management for hardware development projects.
- Ability to prepare estimates, bids and proposals.
- Previous experience working in a defense or aerospace company
- Active SECRET Security Clearance or HIGHER
- Experience with Agile for Hardware Development as a Scrum Master and/or Product Owner, including planning, tracking, and managing hardware development projects in JIRA is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Lead the hardware design and development of high-speed digital circuit card assemblies (CCAs), including requirements capture, schematic capture, layout, test and integration
- Ensure signal and power integrity (SI/PI) robustness for high-density, multi-layer PCBs by driving advanced simulation and validation techniques.
- Apply Earned Value Management System (EVMS) and risk management principles to keep projects on track and aligned with strategic goals.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including software, systems, and mechanical engineering to deliver integrated solutions that meet customer requirements
- Provide technical leadership and mentor others in personal technical growth, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. Includes mentoring on high-speed design principles and layout techniques
- Oversee rigorous testing and validation of hardware components to ensure compliance with industry standards and customer specifications
- Interface with customers and stakeholders to gather requirements, provide technical updates, and ensure satisfaction with delivered products
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees
- Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Student Loan Repayment Program
- Life insurance and disability coverage
- Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection
- Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits
- Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning
- Adoption Assistance
- Autism Benefit
- Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions
- Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program
- Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits
- Bright Horizons, child and elder care services
- Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program
- Eligible for relocation
- And more!
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
