Hardware Engineer

Samtec, Inc.

Position Title:

Hardware Engineer

Samtec is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer with expertise in high-speed optoelectronic platforms to join our Vista, CA team. If you enjoy solving complex technical challenges and seeing your work come to life, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

In this position, you will drive the design, analysis, and development of advanced fiber-optic transceivers and supporting hardware, working across optoelectronics, high-speed circuits, and system-level design in a collaborative R&D environment.

This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer who enjoys building, testing, and refining hardware while contributing to next-generation connectivity solutions.

• High-impact technical ownership influencing product performance and innovation
• Hands-on involvement in R&D and new product development
• Strong autonomy from concept through implementation
• Collaboration with a skilled, forward-thinking engineering team
• Exposure to advanced technologies shaping next-generation designs

• Design of high-speed and high-precision electronics, including experience with rmware-enabled systems. Application of power integrity and RF signal integrity principles and simulation techniques.
• Understanding of fundamental optical data communication systems principles and optical signal integrity impairments, particularly in multi-mode ber-optic systems. Familiarity with optical communication standards, 1G NRZ to 100G PAM4
• Experience with a broad range of DC/RF/Optical test and measurement techniques and equipment with hands-on skills needed to prototype, bring-up, debug, and characterize electrical/optical systems.

• Strong analytical skills with an emphasis on understanding and applying fundamental principles. Ability to synthesize a broad range of complex inputs and apply rigorous processes to drive critical outcomes.
• Strong coding skills across multiple platforms, including familiarity with database systems. Familiarity with statistical and algorithmic data analysis techniques as well as novel AI approaches.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. Comfortable engaging with vendors and customers. Ability to develop and document requirements, implementation details, user guidelines, and product specications.
• Good organizational skills and ability to lead small technical teams.
• Understanding of PCB fabrication and assembly technologies. Experience working with PCB fabricators and assemblers to dene layer stack-ups, converge DFM reviews, and resolve SMT assembly issues.
• Familiarity with the interplay of optical, mechanical, thermal, and electrical considerations in the design of optical transceivers. Basic understanding of optics principles involved in ber-optic coupling. Working knowledge of basic mechanical design principles including materials, fabrication techniques, and tolerancing.
• Familiarity with bare-metal rmware implementation and FPGA-based systems, particularly including high-speed serial I/O.
• Development of test concepts and novel test solutions for EVT/DVT and production.

• 15+ years of experience in hardware design, ber optic communication, and related elds.
• Success in creating and maturing new technologies from concept through early validation.
• Proven record of technical leadership and independent problem solving.

• BS in Electrical Engineering or a related eld required.
• MS or Ph.D. preferred.

The salary range for this position is $190,000 $ 225,000 annually, based on experience.

• generous Samtec bonuses paid three times per year (February, August, and late fall)
• medical (HSA/PPO)
• dental
• vision

• group life
• AD&D
• short- and long-term disability
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 401(k) with company match
• profit sharing
• a variety of voluntary benefit options
• paid time off

Applicants must be eligible to work in the US on an unrestricted basis for any employer.

Founded in 1976, Samtec is a privately held, $950 million global manufacturer of a broad line of electronic interconnect solutions, including High-Speed Board-to-Board, High-Speed Cables, Mid-Board and Panel Optics, Precision RF, Flexible Stacking, and Micro/Rugged components and cables. Samtec Technology Centers are dedicated to developing and advancing technologies, strategies and products to optimize both the performance and cost of a system from the bare die to an interface 100 meters away, and all interconnect points in between.

With 40+ international locations and products sold in more than 125 different countries, Samtecs global presence enables its unmatched customer service.

Samtec is the industry-leading provider of mid-board optical transceiver solutions. This growing and comprehensive family of products provides reliable signal integrity over an extended distance in chip-to-chip, board-to-board, on-board and system-to-system connectivity. Optical products are offered with Samtecs Sudden…