Hardware Design Engineer

HRL Laboratories pioneers the next frontiers of physical and information science, delivering transformative technologies in automotive, aerospace and defense. HRL advances critical missions for its customers, turning research into real‑world solutions.

HRL Laboratories develops radio frequency, millimeter‑wave and electro‑optical sensors using state‑of‑the‑art materials and device fabrication processes. High‑performance solutions are low‑cost, optimized for size, weight and power, and incorporate commercial, custom and mixed‑signal innovations.

The Mixed Signal Solutions department supports quantum computing research by designing and integrating leading‑edge mixed‑signal systems that include novel architectures, advanced algorithms, custom integrated circuits (ICs), printed circuit boards (PCBs), and state‑of‑the‑art packaging and integration techniques. In this role you will help transition innovative concepts into prototype hardware.

• Design and implement engineering solutions for electrical and electronic components, analog and digital subsystems, and associated algorithms, ensuring alignment with established engineering principles and development guidelines.
• Create board‑level design requirements, schematics, and test plans for existing designs, including tolerance verification, form/fit/function assessment, signal and power integrity analysis, thermal characterization, and system‑level power measurements for printed circuit assemblies.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders and external vendors throughout hardware design and development cycles.
• Analyze product requirements from both system and hardware perspectives to propose high‑performance, cost‑effective solutions.

• BS, MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related scientific discipline.
• Experience taking complex designs through the full hardware development cycle, including specification, schematic capture, layout, bring‑up, characterization, and testing.
• Proficient in system bring‑up and debugging of complex embedded systems.
• Skilled in high‑speed digital design (e.g., PCIe, SERDES, HDMI).
• Proficient with CAD tools, preferably Allegro, for design, layout, and simulation.
• Proficiency in the use of computers, engineering workstations, complex electronic equipment, oral and written communication, interaction with vendors/colleagues, and willingness to work in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.
• Ability to work well in a team and independently.

• Solid working knowledge of fundamental high‑speed electrical engineering and circuit design principles.
• Familiarity with power integrity concepts such as decoupling strategies, transient response, and PDN design.
• Understanding of signal integrity topics including crosstalk, insertion and return loss, termination techniques, BGA breakout strategies, and fabrication material selection.
• Knowledge of test procedures and equipment, particularly RF measurement tools such as VNAs and TDRs.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and capable of producing technical documentation.

• Must be sufficiently mobile to work within confined spaces and have both visual and hearing acuity.

• U.S. citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

• Pay Range
  : $154,500 – $197,900. Salaries are determined by role, level and location (California) and are influenced by individual skills, experience and education.
• Benefits
  : HRL offers a generous and competitive total compensation and benefits package. Regular/full‑time benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) match, gym facilities, PTO, sick time, upward mobility and a challenging work environment.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug‑free workplace and perform pre‑employment substance abuse testing.

We encourage applicants who may not meet every single requirement to apply. At HRL, a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace is essential.

For more information about Equal Employment Opportunity as an applicant under the law, please refer to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.