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- Tasks: Design and layout PCBs for high-speed digital and RF applications using Altium.
- Company: Leading tech firm in Hampshire, focused on innovative electronic solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and shape the future of electronic design.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in PCB CAD design with Altium; strong RF and digital design skills.
- Other info: Onsite work required; SC Clearance eligibility is a must.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Hampshire Area, UK (Onsite up to 5 days per week may be required)
Experience Required: 5+ years in PCB CAD design using Altium Designer
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced PCB CAD Designer to take responsibility for PCB layout, component placement, and routing for RF and high-speed digital boards. The role involves close collaboration with design engineers to ensure high-quality, manufacturable, and testable PCB designs that meet performance and reliability standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform electronic schematic capture and PCB layout design using the Altium software suite.
- Develop and maintain component libraries, including schematic symbols, footprints, and metadata.
- Execute designs involving mixed technologies (SMT, PTH).
- Conduct component placement and signal routing for complex RF and high-speed digital boards (including mmWave).
- Design and validate multi-layer PCBs, including through-holes, blind and buried vias.
- Define PCB layer stack-up and material selection (substrates, copper thickness, dielectric types).
- Ensure designs meet Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Testability (DFT) requirements.
- Perform signal integrity verification, ensuring controlled impedance, capacitance, and spacing for high-speed traces.
- Design and verify power distribution networks considering current limits, copper weight, and spacing.
- Maintain balanced copper distribution to prevent board bow and twist.
- Prepare comprehensive manufacturing documentation and fabrication data packages.
Standards and Compliance
- In-depth knowledge and application of IPC-A-600
- IPC-6012
- IPC-A-610 (up to Class 3)
- IPC-2221
- Ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices.
Essential Skills and Experience
- Minimum 5 years of experience in PCB CAD design using Altium Designer.
- Proven track record with RF and high-speed digital PCB design.
- Strong understanding of PCB materials, stack-up design, and impedance control.
- Experience working closely with electrical and mechanical engineers throughout the product design cycle.
- Excellent attention to detail and a methodical approach to documentation and verification.
Additional Information
To be considered for this role, you must hold active SC Clearance or be eligible to obtain SC Clearance.
Printed Circuit Board Designer in Southampton employer: Sanderson Government & Defence
Contact Detail:
Sanderson Government & Defence Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Printed Circuit Board Designer in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the PCB design world, especially those who work with Altium. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best PCB designs, especially those involving RF and high-speed digital boards. This will give potential employers a clear view of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on industry standards like IPC-A-600 and IPC-6012. Being able to discuss these in detail will show you're not just experienced but also knowledgeable about compliance and best practices.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We often have exclusive listings that you won't find elsewhere. Plus, it’s a great way to get noticed by our hiring team directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Printed Circuit Board Designer in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your 5+ years of experience in PCB CAD design, especially with Altium Designer. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those relevant projects!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this specific role. Mention your experience with RF and high-speed digital boards, and how you’ve collaborated with engineers to create top-notch designs. It’ll make your application stand out!
Be Detail-Oriented: Since attention to detail is key in PCB design, ensure your application reflects that. Use clear and concise language, and double-check for any typos or errors. We appreciate a methodical approach right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sanderson Government & Defence
✨Know Your Altium Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in Altium Designer, as it’s a key requirement for the role. Brush up on your PCB layout techniques, component placement strategies, and routing methods, especially for RF and high-speed digital boards. Being able to discuss specific projects where you’ve used Altium effectively will really impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working closely with design engineers, be prepared to talk about your experience collaborating with others. Share examples of how you’ve worked in teams to solve design challenges or improve PCB manufacturability. Highlighting your communication skills can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Your Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is crucial in PCB design, so come ready to discuss how you ensure accuracy in your work. You might want to mention your approach to documentation, verification processes, and how you maintain compliance with industry standards like IPC-A-600 and IPC-6012. This will show that you take quality seriously.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to PCB design, such as impedance control, layer stack-up, and DFM/DFT requirements. Brush up on these topics and be ready to explain your thought process during design decisions. If you can demonstrate your technical expertise confidently, you’ll leave a strong impression.
