Graduate Hardware Design Engineer

The Pickering Group is a family‑owned, UK‑based electronics manufacturer established in 1968, specialising in high‑quality switching, simulation, and relay products for aerospace, automotive and defence industries. As a Graduate Hardware Design Engineer you will contribute to the design, development and validation of electronic hardware solutions across the product lifecycle, gaining experience that prepares you for technical leadership.

• Assist in the design, development and testing of analogue and digital electronic circuits for new and existing products.
• Lead in the design and validation of product update projects.
• Create detailed schematics and PCB layouts using Altium Designer.
• Develop and execute test plans for prototypes and final products.
• Conduct hardware debugging using test equipment (oscilloscopes, DMMs).
• Collaborate with mechanical and software teams to ensure effective hardware/software integration.
• Work closely with cross‑functional teams (software, mechanical, test, NPI and manufacturing) to ensure efficient project delivery.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation.
• Support product lifecycle from initial concept to end‑of‑life.
• Provide support to production for released products.
• Provide support to the sales team and customers for a variety of products.
• Continue personal development by participating in training courses and seminars.
• Visit trade shows to gain market insights.
• Assist with internal and external quality system audits.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Strong understanding of analogue and digital circuit design principles.
• Experience with schematic capture and PCB layout tools (Altium Designer, OrCAD, KiCad).
• Experience with laboratory test equipment (oscilloscopes, multimeters, spectrum analyzers).
• Basic programming skills (C/C++, Python) for embedded systems or test automation are a plus.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and keen attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• A genuine passion for hardware design and a proactive approach to learning.

• Competitive salary and 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Life insurance of 4 times the annual salary, capped at £50k.
• Corporate gym and spa membership.
• Thorough induction program with a Pickering Pal.
• Regular reviews and performance‑related pay increases.
• Well‑being and mental health support through an EAP partnership.
• Paid company social events (e.g., summer festival, Christmas party).
• Career progression and training programmes.
• Sponsoring further education and salary‑sacrifice pension contributions.
• Potential for worldwide business travel (role‑dependent).
• Free tea, coffee and fresh fruit.