Senior Electronic Hardware Design Engineer, Cape Town

Introduction
We are looking for a highly experienced Senior Electronic Hardware Design Engineer to take a leading role in the design, development, and testing of Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) for cutting-edge defence and aerospace applications. This position requires deep technical expertise in electronic circuit simulation, schematic design, and PCB layout, as well as proven experience guiding projects from concept through to production. The successful candidate will also play a key role in mentoring junior engineers and ensuring designs meet stringent industry standards.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead the design, simulation, schematic capture, and PCB layout of LRUs in line with system specifications
• Apply and follow electronic hardware design processes, ensuring thorough documentation in line with hardware design plans
• Take part in technical peer reviews, providing feedback and ensuring design quality
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, offering technical support and leadership
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams (software, mechanical, DSP, RF, aeronautical) to achieve seamless hardware integration
• Test, validate, and verify hardware designs against applicable standards (DO-160, MIL-STD-704)
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues impacting design and performance
• Stay up to date with advancements in electronic hardware design and apply innovations to ongoing and future projects

Desired Experience and Qualifications

• BEng or MEng in Electronic Engineering (or equivalent qualification)
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in hardware design (15 years preferred); aerospace or defence sector experience advantageous
• Extensive expertise in analogue, digital, and communication electronic hardware design
• Proficiency in:
  
  • Altium (non-negotiable)
  • LTspice or similar circuit simulation software
  • Microsoft Word and Excel
• Strong knowledge of schematic design, PCB design, circuit analysis, development processes, and testing procedures
• Familiarity with key industry standards, including DO-160, MIL-STD-461, MIL-STD-704, MIL-STD-810, and DO-254
• Preferred technical experience:
  
  • 3U VPX and 3U VPX backplane design
  • MTBF calculations and FMEA circuit analysis
  • High-speed digital design (50GbE to 100GbE)
  • Ansys and IPC PCB design courses for military and aerospace applications

Soft Skills:

• Strong problem-solving ability with excellent attention to detail
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and contribute effectively to multidisciplinary teams
• Commitment to following structured design processes and delivering high-quality, reliable designs