This individual will be working across several projects and must be able to communicate design challenges and priorities clearly. They will lay out printed circuit boards under the direction of electrical engineers, provide direct support across all aspects of the PCB design process, and manage the workflow to ensure a smooth transition from schematic to layout to manufacturing. In addition to layout responsibilities, this candidate will be instrumental in vetting components in our library for correctness, ensuring that symbols, footprints, and 3D models match datasheet information and DEKA templates.
How you will make an impact as a PCB Layout Designer:
Design and Layout
- Create PCB layouts from electrical schematics using industry-standard CAD tools (Altium Designer, KiCad, Eagle, or similar)
- Develop multi-layer board designs ranging from simple 2-layer to complex high-speed digital and mixedsignal boards
- Optimize component placement for thermal management, signal integrity, and manufacturing efficiency
- Route high-speed differential pairs, controlled impedance traces, and power distribution networks
- Perform design rule checks (DRC) and electrical rule checks (ERC) to ensure design integrity
- Create and modify library components in our database to ensure symbols, footprints, and 3D models accurately match datasheet specifications and DEKA templates.
- Work closely with electrical engineers to understand circuit requirements and constraints
- Collaborate with mechanical engineers to ensure proper fit within enclosures and assemblies
- Interface with manufacturing partners to optimize designs for assembly and cost-effectiveness
- Participate in design reviews and provide technical recommendations for layout improvements
- Generate comprehensive fabrication drawings, assembly drawings, and bill of materials
- Maintain design documentation and revision control throughout the product development cycle
- Ensure compliance with industry standards (IPC, UL, FCC) and company design guidelines
- Create and maintain PCB design libraries and component footprints
- 4+ years of experience in PCB layout design and electrical engineering principles
- Proficiency with PCB design software (Altium Designer preferred)
- Understanding of signal integrity principles, EMI/EMC considerations, and thermal management
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes including surface mount and through-hole assembly
- Familiarity with industry standards and design for manufacturability (DFM) principles
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot design issues
- Good communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Continuous learning mindset to stay current with evolving technologies and industry trends
- Experience with high-speed digital design, RF/microwave circuits, or power electronics
- Knowledge of simulation tools for signal integrity and thermal analysis
- IPC certification (CID, CID+, or similar)
- Experience with flexible and rigid-flex PCB technologies
- Understanding of component sourcing and supply chain considerations
- Experience in managing a library of components (symbols, footprints, 3d-models)
About DEKA:
One hour from the beach, Boston, and the mountains, the historic Amoskeag Millyard once housed the largest textile mills in the world. It is now home to DEKA Research & Development, where we are taking the same innovation and cutting-edge technology into the modern age.
Behind DEKA’s brick walls sits a team of professionals who strive to make a difference every day through thoughtful engineering, design, and manufacturing. Here at DEKA, some of the most innovative and life-changing products of our time are created, and new ideas are always welcome and explored.
Top Skills
What We Do
DEKA is one of the leading research and development companies in the country and is the birthplace of some of the most innovative and life-changing products of our time. For over thirty years, DEKA Research & Development Corp. has made Manchester, New Hampshire home. Located about an hour from Boston, the beach, and the mountains, we are situated in the beautiful and historic Amoskeag Millyard buildings located in downtown Manchester.
DEKA continues to be a place where no idea seems too big and where creativity and crazy cool gizmos reign supreme. The engineers, technicians, machinists, designers and all of the other folks who make up DEKA are some of the most creative and innovative professionals you could ever hope to meet. It's a place where one crazy idea can end up being the next greatest invention. At DEKA we embrace the spirit of innovation and constantly aim to turn the impossible into a reality.
DEKA is filled with people who are driven to be among the best and brightest in their field of work. It’s a concentrated bunch of really smart thinkers, doers and problems solvers, who are driven to using innovative design solutions and state-of-the-art technology to improve lives. We all see endless possibilities in the power of technology to do good. Employees have the opportunity to work on diverse projects that have a positive, enduring impact on millions of people worldwide. We are growing! We're always seeking passionate individuals to join our growing team of evolved thinkers.
