LEAD ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - PCB Technical Design Lead
Southwest Research Institute
San Antonio, TX
Who We Are:
We are a world-renowned supplier in advanced spacecraft avionics and payload processing solutions. Our state-of-the-art research and development center provides complete turn-key systems and solutions to meet the most demanding space applications.
Objectives of this Role:
- Support design, analysis, documentation, verification, and test of digital electronics and analog power hardware for space applications including command and control, data storage, signal processing, and communications.
- Participate in the full lifecycle design for related flight digital electronics in high reliability systems for space applications; perform analysis and implement designs from concept to hardware; work with team of full-time engineers.
- Identify process improvements for future.
- Lead the PCB Design Team, ensuring high-quality and timely delivery of PCB designs that meet project requirements.
- Oversee the design and layout of custom printed circuit boards, adhering to IPC design standards and guidelines.
- Mentor and train team members.
- Develop, refine, and implement team processes for PCB design, part creation, and library/database management.
- Identify and implement opportunities for automation within the PCB design process, including script development.
- Collaborate closely with engineers and cross-functional teams to translate system requirements into PCB designs.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
- Plan, organize, lead, and coordinate the activities of 4 technical staff in the PWB layout group.
- Lead a team consisting technicians and technologists; make detailed plans and manage to the plans to accomplish technical and schedule goals for PWB designs.
- Oversee the completion of PWB design projects in Altium as well as supporting business development for government and commercial clients with notional/concept designs.
- Perform PWB design activities for signal and power integrity.
- Identify areas of future growth (new design features, materials, and standards).
- Maintain vendor relationships with PWB fabrication facilities as well as coupon test labs.
- Interact with engineering, component logistics, and fabrication staff to support the processing of designs through the SwRI ecosystem.
Requirements:
- Requires a Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.
- IPC Certified - CID+ Preferred
- 5 years: PWB design and layout, particularly with the Altium toolset. Prefer intimate knowledge of Rigid Design Specs (IPC-2222 & 6012) and Flex Design Specs (IPC-2223 & 6013). Knowledge of multilayer PCB layout, fabrication and assembly techniques including blind/buried micro/vias.
- 5 years: Electrical analyses such and signal and power integrity.
- 5 years: Interaction with PWB vendors - Experience working with various PCB suppliers and managing quality performance.
- A valid/clear driver's license is required.
About the Company
Southwest Research Institute
We are R&D problem solvers providing independent, premier services to government and industry clients. Our multidisciplinary nature allows us to rapidly assemble diverse teams to tackle problems from multiple directions. We push the boundaries of science and technology to develop innovative solutions that advance the state of the art and improve human health and safety. Operating as a nonprofit since our 1947 inception, we work in the public’s best interest and toward the betterment of mankind. At SwRI, we tirelessly pursue innovation and excellence in science and technology for the betterment of humankind. We support work on nearly 4,000 client projects at any given time through a wide range of technical competencies with 2,574 staff members in nine technical divisions. Client services include, but are not limited to, Automotive and Transportation, Biomedical & Health, Chemistry & Materials, Computers and Electronics, Defense & Security, Earth & Space, Energy & Environment, and Manufacturing & Construction.
TECHNICAL DIVISIONS
- Applied Physics-Developing advanced electronic and microelectronic devices, power supplies, voice and data communication systems, robot test services, and payloads
- Applied Power-Using physical science research and applied engineering to produce sensors, instruments, and hardware used worldwide.
- Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses-Resolving technical and regulatory issues related to a potential geologic repository for spent nuclear fule and high-level radioactive waste.
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering-Performing research and technical services using chemistry and chemical engineering technology.
- Defense and & Intelligence Solutions-Providing advanced direction finding and tracking systems through geolocation system development.
- Fuels and Lubricants Research-Performing fuels and lubricants research activities to meet regulatory and competitive goals.
- Intelligent Systems-Providing engineering services in resaerch and development of complex systems and equipment.
- Mechanical Engineering-Improving safety, reliability, efficiency and life of new or existing mechanical components or systems.
- Powertrain Engineering-Designing and developing vehicle and engine components to achieve performance and emissions goals.
- Space Science & Engineering-Developing and managing advanced scientific payloads aboard satellites and sounding rockets.
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Innovation in science and technology has been a hallmark of Southwest Research Institute since its earliest days. It's no exaggeration to say we are committed to advancing science and applying technology to benefit government, industry, and all humankind. That is our mission. Our multidisciplinary, collaborative approach allows us to successfully solve clients' most challenging problems. Today, we are a leader among independent, nonprofit research and development organizations. Our staff of 2,574 scientists, engineers, analysts, and support staff members continues to accomplish outstanding fundamental and applied engineering and research for clients from diverse segments of government and industry. Adam L. Hamilton, P.E, President and CEO