Description

An electronics hardware design engineer works for an electronics-manufacturing company by conducting research of what consumers need and want and designing cost-effective, efficient hardware that will be implemented into various types of electronics.

Designers work on designs that have the lowest cost possible for the business, yet also represent high-quality. They often are given budgets which must be followed constantly; the products also have to comply with all regulations and laws. Engineers do not just create products, but they will assist in the development and debugging hardware. Various tests and experiments must be conducted to ensure the best products. They also assist with the process of distribution.

The engineer who designs electronics hardware must be aware of any developments in the market and also what competitors are creating to create the most effective and efficient products. Collaboration is a crucial ability, since engineers typically works on teams that include employees from the company as well as external parties to tackle the design and development of products. Engineers often use computers for design, like CAD to design products and.

In general, an undergraduate qualification with a major in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or another similar subject is needed. This is a highly specialized job that often requires years of work experience.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Electronics Hardware Design Engineer with 0-3 years of experience in the United States, your main responsibilities include:

  • Collaborating with the design team to develop schematic diagrams and perform circuit simulations to ensure product functionality.
  • Conducting component selection and procurement to meet project specifications and cost constraints.
  • Designing and debugging PCB layouts, ensuring proper signal integrity and manufacturability.
  • Assisting in the testing and validation of hardware prototypes, analyzing and documenting test results for future product improvements.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Electronics Hardware Design Engineer job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • A strong command of software tools such as Cadence Allegro, Mentor Graphics, or Altium Designer is essential to design and develop complex electronic schematics, printed circuit boards (PCBs), and integrated circuits (ICs).
  • In-depth understanding of analog and digital circuit design principles, signal processing, microprocessors, and microcontrollers is crucial for designing and implementing high-performance electronic systems.
  • Hands-on expertise in PCB layout and design, including component placement, signal integrity analysis, power delivery network (PDN) design, and thermal management, is critical to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and manufacturability of electronic hardware.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail are necessary to identify and resolve technical issues during the hardware design and development process, as well as to conduct thorough testing and debugging of electronic circuits and systems.

Essential Skills For Electronics Hardware Design Engineer

1

Electronic Equipment Maintenance

2

Electronics Devices & Circuits

3

Electronic Troubleshooting

Skills That Affect Electronics Hardware Design Engineer Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Designing

4%

Career Prospects

The role of an Electronics Hardware Design Engineer is crucial in the United States, especially for professionals with 0-3 years of experience. However, there are several alternative roles available to explore in the field. Here are following options to consider:

  • Firmware Engineer: A role that focuses on writing and testing software code that runs on embedded systems within electronic hardware.
  • Test Engineer: A position dedicated to designing and executing test plans to ensure the quality and functionality of electronic hardware products.
  • Product Engineer: A role that involves working closely with cross-functional teams to develop new electronic hardware products, from concept to production.
  • Systems Engineer: A position focused on integrating and optimizing various hardware components to create efficient and reliable electronic systems.

How to Learn

The future for Electronics Hardware Design Engineers in the United States seems promising. The job role is expected to grow steadily in the market due to increasing technological advancements. According to a 10-year analysis, there is a positive outlook for this position, with a projected growth rate of around 6-8% annually. This growth aligns with the expanding demand for consumer electronics, IoT devices, and innovative technologies. The employment opportunities for Electronics Hardware Design Engineers are also expected to increase in the coming years, offering a wide range of prospects in various industries.