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 6-9 years of experience in the United States, your main responsibilities include:

  • Designing and developing electronic hardware systems, including schematic design, component selection, and PCB layout.You will be responsible for creating the overall hardware architecture and designing circuits using various components to meet project requirements.
  • Conducting testing and troubleshooting of prototypes and production units to ensure compliance with specifications and standards.You will perform rigorous testing and debugging of hardware prototypes to identify and resolve any issues or faults in the design.
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as software engineers and mechanical designers, to integrate hardware systems into larger products.Working closely with other teams, you will coordinate the integration of electronic hardware systems with software and mechanical components to create fully functional products.
  • Providing technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers, reviewing their work, and ensuring adherence to industry standards and best practices.

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.

Debugging

9%

Designing

20%

Career Prospects

The role of an Electronics Hardware Design Engineer, with 6-9 years of experience in the United States, is vital in developing cutting-edge technology. However, professionals in this field may consider exploring alternative roles. Here are following options to consider:

  • Embedded Systems Engineer: A role focused on designing and developing software for embedded systems, including microcontrollers and firmware.
  • Systems Integration Engineer: A position involving integrating different hardware components into a cohesive system, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
  • Product Development Manager: A role that involves overseeing the entire product development lifecycle, from concept to manufacturing, ensuring timely delivery and quality control.
  • Test Engineer: A position focused on testing and verifying the functionality, performance, and reliability of electronic hardware, ensuring adherence to standards and specifications.

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.