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- Tasks: Lead the design of advanced PCB systems for imaging platforms in defence applications.
- Company: Join a leading firm in defence and surveillance technology, shaping the future of hardware engineering.
- Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with opportunities for mentorship and collaboration in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovative technology while making a significant impact in defence and surveillance.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in hardware design, with expertise in imaging systems and Altium Designer required.
- Other info: This is an onsite position based in Abu Dhabi, perfect for seasoned professionals.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 90000 £ per year.
One of my clients is seeking a highly experienced Principal Hardware Design Engineer to lead the development of advanced PCB systems for day and thermal imaging platforms. This role is critical in delivering high-performance, ruggedized hardware for defense and surveillance applications, with a strong emphasis on signal integrity, environmental resilience, and system integration.
Core Responsibilities
- Lead schematic capture, PCB layout, and SPICE simulation using Altium Designer or similar tools.
- Design and develop PCBs for day and thermal camera systems, including sensor interfaces, power regulation, and digital processing modules.
- Create complex multilayer PCBs with high-speed video data transmission, using techniques such as blind/buried vias, via-in-pad, and BGA configurations.
- Ensure signal integrity and minimize crosstalk through effective analog/digital domain separation.
- Develop ruggedized PCBs for harsh environmental conditions typical in defense and surveillance.
- Design power distribution systems with a focus on low noise, thermal management, and EMC.
- Integrate interface standards such as MIPI CSI, LVDS, HDMI, and USB into camera modules.
- Implement EMI/ESD protection, grounding schemes, and shielding for high-sensitivity imaging systems.
- Generate complete manufacturing documentation including BOMs, Gerber files, assembly drawings, and test plans.
- Collaborate with firmware and optics teams to ensure alignment with calibration, synchronization, and system integration.
- Mentor junior engineers and support peer reviews and validation processes.
- Utilize lab tools (e.g., logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, thermal cameras) for debugging and validation.
Supporting Responsibilities
- Work with microcontroller, FPGA, and ISP architectures for camera control and data handling.
- Support integration of thermal sensors (e.g., ULIS, FLIR) and visible image sensors into embedded systems.
- Apply thermal management techniques and temperature compensation for IR camera hardware.
- Conduct hardware bring-up, calibration board support, and sensor alignment.
- Collaborate with systems engineering and testing teams during lab and field trials.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical or Electronics Engineering.
- 15+ years of experience in hardware design, with a strong focus on imaging systems and PCB development.
- Proven track record of successful PCB designs in defense or ruggedized environments.
- Deep knowledge of Altium Designer and hardware troubleshooting.
Key Skills
- Digital Electronics: Strong foundation in digital circuit design and signal processing.
- High-Speed Data Handling: Experience with high-bandwidth video and data interfaces.
- Thermal & Day Camera Design: Specialized knowledge in imaging hardware for surveillance and defense.
- Altium Designer: Expert-level proficiency in schematic capture, layout, and simulation.
- Defense Industry: Familiarity with ruggedization, MIL-STD compliance, and environmental constraints.
Principal Hardware Design Engineer employer: LevelUP HCS
Contact Detail:
LevelUP HCS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Hardware Design Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the defence and imaging systems sectors. Attend industry conferences or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or employers, and don’t hesitate to reach out on platforms like LinkedIn to connect with current employees at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise in Altium Designer by creating a portfolio of your past PCB designs. Highlight projects that demonstrate your ability to handle high-speed data transmission and ruggedised environments, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with thermal management and EMI/ESD protection during interviews. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully implemented these techniques in previous projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in defence hardware design. Being knowledgeable about current advancements will not only impress interviewers but also show your commitment to staying at the forefront of the industry.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Hardware Design Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your extensive experience in hardware design, particularly in imaging systems and PCB development. Use specific examples of projects you've led that align with the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your expertise with Altium Designer and your experience in ruggedized environments. Mention how your skills can contribute to the company's goals in defence and surveillance applications.
Showcase Relevant Projects: Include a portfolio or a section in your CV that showcases relevant projects, especially those involving high-speed data handling and thermal camera design. This will demonstrate your practical experience and problem-solving abilities.
Highlight Leadership Experience: Since this role involves mentoring junior engineers, be sure to highlight any leadership roles you've held. Discuss your experience in guiding teams through complex projects and your approach to collaboration with cross-functional teams.
How to prepare for a job interview at LevelUP HCS
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Principal Hardware Design Engineer, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep knowledge of PCB design and imaging systems. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully implemented complex designs, particularly in rugged environments.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Tools
Make sure you're well-versed in Altium Designer and other relevant tools mentioned in the job description. You might be asked to explain your experience with schematic capture, PCB layout, and simulation, so having examples ready will help you stand out.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
This role involves working closely with firmware and optics teams. Be ready to share experiences where you've collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams, highlighting your ability to mentor junior engineers and support peer reviews.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to signal integrity, thermal management, and high-speed data handling. Brush up on these topics and be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in these areas in your previous roles.
