Principal Hardware Design Engineer

Principal Hardware Design Engineer

Our Client is a leading provider of innovative hardware solutions within the aerospace industry, specialising in advanced digital and electronic systems for platforms or applications that require high reliability and performance. Renowned for fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture, they are committed to technological excellence, continuous growth, and making a meaningful impact on security and safety. Their reputation for innovation combined with comprehensive benefits makes them an exceptional place to develop your career.

Role Overview

Due to strategic growth and the ongoing development of cutting-edge hardware products, Our Client is seeking an experienced Principal Hardware Design Engineer. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to influence the future of hardware technology, working on projects that have a global reach and a vital impact. The successful candidate will be a core contributor to the full product lifecycle, from initial requirements to production transition, ensuring the delivery of world-class hardware solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of complex digital and mixed-signal hardware components for mission-critical systems.
• Capture and define high-level hardware requirements in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Oversee detailed Printed Wire Board (PWB) layout and integration, ensuring manufacturability and testability.
• Support verification, qualification, and factory deployment of hardware products.
• Collaborate with system, software, mechanical, manufacturing, and environmental teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Contribute towards thermal management, EMI control, and regulatory compliance strategies.
• Participate in occasional travel to facilitate project progression and team collaboration.

Essential Skills & Experience

• A degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) with a minimum of 8 years’ pertinent experience or an advanced degree with at least 5 years’ relevant industry experience.
• Proven expertise in high-speed digital circuit design, PWB layout (especially PCIe processor boards), and hardware verification.
• Familiarity with lab equipment and practical experience in manufacturing support.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to work effectively both independently and within a team.
• Experience with complex interfaces including Ethernet, ARINC 429, MIL-STD 1553, and PCIe, is highly desirable.

Additional Skills & Knowledge (Desirable)

• Experience in FPGA development and RTOS integration.
• Knowledge of industry standards such as MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461, and DO-160.
• Experience with fibre optic transceivers and lighting protection circuits.
• Ability to contribute to hardware development within a regulated environment, ensuring compliance and performance standards.

This opportunity is based on site in Iowa, applicants must be based, or happy to relocate to the region. Unfortunately sponsorship is not available for this position.