Principal Hardware Engineer I

About This Opportunity

We are representing a confidential aerospace technology client in their search for a Principal Hardware Engineer I based in Milton Keynes, United Kingdom. Our client develops advanced communication systems for satellites and aerospace platforms, operating in a dynamic, cross-functional startup environment where your contributions directly impact mission-critical systems.

At the Principal level, you will own full-stack hardware development for complex modules and systems—from concept through detailed design, analysis, layout, build, test, and delivery. You'll also take on technical leadership responsibilities, guiding critical designs and engineering teams developing next-generation products for high-reliability space and airborne applications.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end design of complex electronics modules and systems, including high-speed digital, power electronics, and RF applications
• Lead teams of hardware engineers to develop multi-module products
• Provide subject matter expertise across hardware development initiatives company-wide
• Develop hardware architecture and write requirements for highly complex systems
• Perform detailed schematic design and PCB layout in Altium Designer for complex boards
• Complete worst-case circuit analysis, signal integrity analysis, and power integrity analysis; establish analysis methodologies
• Develop bring-up plans and design verification plans for new hardware and integrated systems
• Perform bring-up and verification testing of modules and systems, coordinating with cross-functional teams
• Release modules and assemblies to production in collaboration with Manufacturing and Test Engineering
• Mentor engineers at all levels to build technical expertise and professional development
• Present engineering design reviews to customers and executive leadership

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science degree or higher in Electrical Engineering from an accredited university
• Minimum 9 years of industry or research experience in board-level electronics design, analysis, and test
• Direct experience designing high-reliability electronics for space or defense applications, including part derating, worst-case analysis, and thermal constraints
• Proven ownership of complex board-level electronics design phases, including architecture, trade studies, key part selection, and detailed design
• Multiple successful hardware product deliveries through production and deployment
• Expertise in PCB layout and manufacturing, including high-density interconnect stackup design and IPC standards
• Expertise derisking designs with signal integrity and power integrity simulation tools (Ansys SIwave, ADS SIPro, Mentor Hyperlynx)
• Strong understanding of adjacent disciplines (software, mechanical) for holistic system architecture
• Expert-level proficiency in electronics design tools such as Altium
• Extensive lab experience with specialized test equipment for hardware bring-up and verification
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for customer and executive presentations

Preferred Experience:

• Experience leading hardware engineering teams developing multi-module assemblies
• Design experience for space radiation environments

Important Note: This role is subject to security and export control restrictions. Factors including nationality, dual nationalities, place of birth, and country of residence may limit eligibility.

How We Work with You

Candidates apply directly through Get A Job.ai. Our talent team will conduct an initial screening to understand your background and fit for this specialized role. Qualified candidates will then be submitted to our client for consideration. Please do not contact the client directly—all communication should flow through our recruiting team to ensure a professional and coordinated process.

Pay

Compensation details will be discussed with qualified candidates based on experience level and the client's approved salary range for this position.

Equal Opportunity: Get A Job.ai is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all candidates we represent.