Electrical CAD Designer

SUMMARY: Execute PCB layout designs and maintain the company’s electronic component library. Responsible for the end-to-end PCB layout process and creating, maintaining, and optimizing CAD library components, including symbols, footprints, and 3D models.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Create and maintain electronic component symbols, footprints, and 3D models.
• Implement and enforce best practices and standards for library components.
• Collaborate with engineers to manage new part requests, resolve issues with library components, and update the database as necessary.
• Manage version control and documentation for CAD library components to ensure traceability and maintain design integrity.
• Perform PCB layout design from concept to manufacturing, including placement, routing, and verification of high-speed, analog, and mixed-signal circuits.
• Work closely with hardware engineers to understand design requirements and constraints for each project.
• Conduct design-for-manufacturability (DFM) and design-for-test (DFT) reviews to optimize layouts for production and testing.
• Generate all required manufacturing documentation, including Gerber files, assembly drawings, and BOMs.
• Maintain close communication with PCB fabrication and assembly vendors to address any design-related issues during the manufacturing process.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with hardware engineers, mechanical engineers, and product development teams.
• Stay up to date with industry trends, IPC standards, and advancements in CAD tools and library management practices.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Proficiency in Altium Designer PCB design tools and library management.
• Strong understanding of IPC standards for component footprints and PCB design.
• Knowledge of EMC mitigation techniques, DFM and DFT principles and experience with high-speed, analog, and/or mixed-signal design.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently, meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• 0-2+ years of experience in PCB layout design and CAD library management.

• Technical degree (2-yr), bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, or related field.  Equivalent experience considered.
• Experience with library management software and/or version control tools.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Lifting requirements up to 10 pounds.
• Requires sitting for periods of time and occasional standing.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Working conditions are normal for an office environment. Minimal noise.
• Our Minnesota facility includes a manufacturing environment. Moderate noise level. Machinery operation requires the use of safety equipment to include but not limited to; safety glasses, hearing protection, wrist and shoe straps, and ESD smock. Loose fitting clothing and jewelry are not permitted. No food allowed in the manufacturing area. No cell phone use allowed in manufacturing area unless approved by management.

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS USED:

• Computer
• Standard office equipment