PC Board Designer
Poway, California
Overview
General Atomics pioneers technologies with the potential to change the world. Behind a talented global team of engineers, GA delivers safe, sustainable, and economical solutions to meet growing global demands. Our Engineers have an opportunity to work on first of a kind product lines within an incredible, dynamic environment.
Engineering positions typically require a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience. Candidates from mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering backgrounds must know the fundamentals of engineering system developments, requirements, testing, and integration before getting to the final stages of customer interface and project management.
Schedule: Full-Time Hourly
Job Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)
Travel: 0 - 25
Success Profile
What makes a successful PC Board Designer at General Atomics? Check out the top traits we’re looking for and see if you have the right mix.
- Analytical
- Collaborative
- Inventive
- Problem Solver
- Team Player
- Creative
Job Summary General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
We have an exciting career opportunity for a PC Board Designer to join our Electrical Engineering GA-ASI division in San Diego, CA (Poway, CA).
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES:
- This position works under limited supervision interfacing with electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and manufacturing to complete the design of complex printed circuit boards using a current version of Siemens PADs PCB. Common technologies include analog, high speed digital and RF.
- Current electrical CAD experience required. Experience with Pads and/or Altium considered a plus. Familiarity with gerber viewers and design validation software a plus.
- The designer is expected to provide consistent error free deliverables including gerber, NC drill, and an electronic drawing package that meet significant constraints. Constraints are driven by: DFx (fabrication, assembly, test & rework), signal integrity, power integrity and mechanical packaging.
- The successful candidate will be capable of schematic capture, PCB design and the generation & validation of all deliverables. Deliverables include Standard PCB and Assembly drawings, RS274X gerber, NC drill, IPC 356 files, back annotated schematics, BOMs, pick and place files etc.
- Familiarity with IPC-7351 Library standards and the Siemens LP calculator required. ECAD Library development is a required skill set. Peer checking of parts and a commitment to library integrity is required.
- Capable of managing design tradeoffs in a dynamic engineering environment.
- Capable of being a team player and willing to selflessly contribute to the success of the organization.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills enabling efficient communication with fabricators and CMs
- Familiar with PCB laminates and prepregs for the development of stackups that meet the electrical signal integrity requirements for a cost-effective design
- General Atomics PCB designs typically require blind, buried and standard mechanical vias and are produced domestically. Some number of designs can include one or two layers of staggered microvias.
- The job scope while primarily PCB design may also include parts kitting, BOM management, component procurement, quick prototype activity (assembly and LPKF)
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications:
- Typically requires an Associates degree or a training certificate from a recognized organization indicating completion of training in basic electronics technology and in CAD design software and two or more years of progressive experience designing PC boards utilizing CAD engineering design software. Additional experience designing PC boards may be substituted in lieu of education.
- Must have complete understanding of PC board design concepts, drafting principles and demonstrate a high level of skill using electrical CAD engineering software.
- Must possess the ability to understand concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving design process.
- Must be able to organize, schedule, and complete projects efficiently and on time.
- Must have strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills while being able to work both independently and as part of a team.
- The ability to trouble-shoot and test electronic assemblies and to rework electronic assemblies considered a plus.
- An advanced technical degree will be considered a plus.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.
Salary:$65,410 - $99,888
Benefits
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Healthcare
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Pension, 401(k)/Retirement Plans
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Competitive Pay
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Multiple product lines means a variety of work
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Paid Time Off

“The company is growing, has a very good reputation and had open positions in my area of expertise (aircraft design/design methodology development).”– Peter, Senior Staff Engineer

“We don't ascribe to quotas; we do ascribe to securing the BEST talent to enrich our culture toward healthy diversification and active/viable community service. We are STEM advocates.”– Debra, CSSBB: Staff Engineer

“Every day is different, with different problems to solve and many programs to support. I am a problem solver and have always been motivated by the tough questions.”– Scott, Laser Scientist

“I work in the Components Engineering and Obsolescence Management Dept. Our efforts are saving General Atomics several millions of dollars by proactively leading and informing the company of all these decisions which significantly impact production, sustainment and new designs.”– John, Staff Engineer
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