Hardware Design Engineer

STR Group Limited; Barnstaple; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering organisation is looking for a skilled Hardware Design Engineer for their Barnstaple team. This hybrid position involves designing 19” rack systems and producing vital documentation. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical/electronic design, ideally using Zuken tools. A HNC/HND in engineering is preferred, with experience in aerospace or defence being advantageous. Join a supportive team contributing to impactful projects.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of electrical and electronic design.
• Ability to produce technical documentation.
• Detail-oriented and methodical approach to problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Interpret technical requirements and deliver designs using rack systems.
• Produce documentation including BOMs and assembly drawings.
• Assess and contribute to certification requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering functions to resolve challenges.

Skills

19” rack systems knowledge

Electrical/electronic design experience

Microsoft Office proficiency

Mechanical and electrical operations skills

Attention to detail

Team player mentality

Education

HNC/HND in relevant engineering discipline

ONC/OND with industry experience

Tools

Zuken design tools

Job description

Overview

A leading engineering organisation is seeking a skilled Hardware Design Engineer to join their Barnstaple-based team. This hybrid role involves designing 19” rack systems housing server processors, EU, PSU, µP boards, and IO boards. Previous experience with ATE or test equipment design is highly desirable, particularly within aerospace or defence sectors.

The ideal candidate will ideally have experience with Zuken design tools, although applications from candidates using other design software are welcomed.

Due to security requirements, only sole British nationals are eligible to apply.

This is an exciting opportunity to work in a multi‑discipline environment, contributing to critical projects with real‑world impact. The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, methodical, and passionate about engineering, with the ability to work proactively within a team.

Key Responsibilities

• Interpret technical requirements and deliver designs using 19” rack systems.
• Produce and manage associated documentation, including BOMs, assembly drawings, wire lists, and test notes.
• Assess and contribute to design certification requirements such as LVD and CE marking.
• Follow established processes and procedures.
• Collaborate with other engineering functions to resolve design and production challenges.

Qualifications

• HNC/HND in a relevant engineering discipline.
• ONC/OND may be considered with demonstrable industry experience.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Strong knowledge of 19” rack systems from vendors such as Orion, Prism, Canford, or nVent.
• Electrical/electronic design experience with the ability to produce technical documentation.
• Familiarity with LVD and CE marking requirements.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Internet).
• Hands‑on skills with mechanical and electrical operations: soldering, crimping, looming, and electromechanical assembly.
• Understanding of production control documentation and traceability.
• Excellent attention to detail, organisational skills, and a methodical approach to problem‑solving.
• Team player with the ability to work independently when required.
• Ideally experienced with Zuken design tools (open to other design tools).

Desirable Experience

• Aerospace or defence industry background.
• ATE or Test Equipment design experience.
• Awareness of Environmental, Health & Safety regulations.

Eligibility

• Sole British nationals only due to security requirements.

To Apply

If you are a motivated Hardware Design Engineer looking to contribute to challenging projects within a supportive, forward‑thinking team, please apply today.