Principal Electrical Engineer (hybrid)

Opto-Knowledge Systems • Torrance, CA

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

As a Principal Electrical Engineer, you'll lead the design, development, and qualification of cutting-edge electronics for AI-powered defense and commercial systems, owning mixed-signal, embedded, and sensor-interface hardware from requirements through production release in SWaP-constrained form factors. Lead the design and development of complex electrical systems, including mixed-signal PCBs, embedded controllers, and custom sensor interfaces. Architect low-power, high-reliability solutions for rugged, space-constrained applications; define electrical requirements and validate hardware against functional, thermal, and EMI/EMC targets. Integrate embedded processors, FPGAs, sensors, and power subsystems within multifunctional platforms, working closely with software teams on hardware/firmware communication. Own electrical design workstreams within multidisciplinary projects from requirements through release; provide technical guidance and task leadership to junior engineers and interns. Serve as a key contributor in design reviews, risk assessments, and trade studies. Develop test procedures and lead lab validation efforts (thermal, vibration, environmental testing); conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions. Collaborate with vendors on PCB fabrication, assembly, and design for manufacturability (DFM); manage obsolescence and lifecycle planning. Evaluate and propose new components, tools, and methods to enhance performance, reduce cost, or improve manufacturability. Mentor others and stay engaged with emerging technologies in electronics, embedded systems, and AI applications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent, plus 7-9 years of relevant experience
• Proven experience in product development, including work with outsource design and development partners
• Expertise in embedded computing platforms with size, weight, and power (SWaP) constraints
• Familiarity with standard interfaces (Ethernet, CAN, I2C, SPI, PCIe, USB, MIPI) and various MCU, CPU, FPGA technologies
• In-depth knowledge of modern analog and digital electronics, electronic circuits, and design methodologies
• Proficiency in electronic CAD tools
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Exceptional multitasking abilities and the capability to manage multiple concurrent projects

Nice To Haves

• Background in automotive, EV, AV, aerospace, or space industries
• Familiarity with guidance and navigation technologies, or inertial/magnetic sensors
• Experience with optics and multispectral digital imaging systems
• MIL-STD or DO-160 EMC design and test experience
• Knowledge of programmable logic design, or signal/power integrity design
• Experience transitioning products into full production and shipping at scale
• Low-level firmware experience, particularly for bring-up and testing

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex electrical systems, including mixed-signal PCBs, embedded controllers, and custom sensor interfaces
• Architect low-power, high-reliability solutions for rugged, space-constrained applications; define electrical requirements and validate hardware against functional, thermal, and EMI/EMC targets
• Integrate embedded processors, FPGAs, sensors, and power subsystems within multifunctional platforms, working closely with software teams on hardware/firmware communication
• Own electrical design workstreams within multidisciplinary projects from requirements through release; provide technical guidance and task leadership to junior engineers and interns
• Serve as a key contributor in design reviews, risk assessments, and trade studies
• Develop test procedures and lead lab validation efforts (thermal, vibration, environmental testing); conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
• Collaborate with vendors on PCB fabrication, assembly, and design for manufacturability (DFM); manage obsolescence and lifecycle planning
• Evaluate and propose new components, tools, and methods to enhance performance, reduce cost, or improve manufacturability
• Mentor others and stay engaged with emerging technologies in electronics, embedded systems, and AI applications

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision fully paid by the employer for the employee
• Three weeks vacation
• Automatic company contribution to 401K – 5% of earned wages (no matching required)
• Educational assistance

What This Job Offers

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