Junior Hardware Electronics Engineer

Leidos; Leominster; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Junior Hardware Electronics Engineer to support hardware development projects. Ideal for early-career candidates with a HNC/HND in Electrical or Electronic Engineering. Responsibilities include PCB design, microcontroller programming, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. The role offers career progression opportunities and exposure to advanced technologies.

Benefits

Contributory Pension Scheme

Private Medical Insurance

33 days Annual Leave

Access to Flexible benefits

Flexi-Time

Qualifications

• Must have HNC/HND in Electrical or Electronic Engineering.
• Early industry experience is beneficial or equivalent experience through personal projects.
• Interest in progressing to a BSc is welcomed.

Responsibilities

• Assist with designing and prototyping electronic systems.
• Produce and maintain PCB layouts.
• Contribute to microcontroller programming and testing.
• Integrate Bluetooth and RF technologies into designs.
• Create mechanical parts using CAD software.
• Carry out hands-on tasks including soldering.
• Support hardware validation and troubleshooting.
• Maintain schematics and test notes.
• Collaborate with software engineers and technicians.

Skills

Practical aptitude

Problem-solving

Eagerness to learn

Clear communication

Education

HNC/HND in Electrical or Electronic Engineering

Tools

Altium

KICAD

Job description

Junior Hardware Electronics Engineer

We are looking for an enthusiastic early-career Hardware Electronics Engineer to join our growing team. This role is ideal for someone who has completed an HNC/HND in Electrical or Electronic Engineering and is in the early stages of their career, either in industry or through personal projects, placements, or hobby-based learning.

You will support the full lifecycle of hardware development, from concept and prototyping through to assembly, testing, and production. You will work with microcontrollers, sensors, wireless communication modules (Bluetooth, UWB, etc.), and modern prototyping tools to help deliver cutting-edge solutions for industrial and defence applications.

Applicants with a strong hobbyist background, such as Raspberry Pi or ESP32 projects, PCB design, radio experimentation, DIY electronics, 3D printing, or robotics, are especially encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Hardware Development: Assist with designing and prototyping electronic systems using microcontrollers, sensors, and communication modules.
• PCB Design: Produce and maintain PCB layouts using tools such as Altium or KICAD.
• Firmware & Interfacing: Contribute to microcontroller programming and testing.
• Wireless Technology Integration: Assist in integrating Bluetooth, UWB, and other RF technologies into hardware designs.
• 3D Printing & CAD: Create mechanical parts, enclosures, and prototypes using CAD software and additive manufacturing.
• Assembly & Manufacturing: Carry out hands‑on tasks including soldering, cable assembly, and basic workshop activities.
• Testing & Debugging: Support hardware validation, troubleshooting, and performance testing.
• Documentation: Maintain schematics, BOMs, test notes, and build instructions.
• Cross‑Team Collaboration: Work alongside software engineers, technicians, and manufacturing teams to deliver complete solutions.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting engineers with project tasks and prototype builds
• Helping identify issues and contributing to solutions
• Performing technical tests and assisting with device validation
• Maintaining accurate documentation and design records
• Communicating with internal stakeholders and, occasionally, customers

What We’re Looking For

Education

• HNC/HND in Electrical or Electronic Engineering (required)
• Candidates working toward or interested in progressing to a BSc are welcomed

Experience

• Early industry experience is beneficial
• OR equivalent experience through personal, academic, or hobby electronics projects

Technical Interests / Desirable Background

• Raspberry Pi, Arduino, or ESP32 programming
• Hobby electronics, soldering, or PCB kits
• Radio, RF experimentation, or SDR
• CAD modelling or 3D printing
• IoT devices, robotics, or automation projects

General Skills

• Strong practical aptitude and attention to detail
• Good problem‑solving ability
• Eagerness to learn and develop professionally
• Comfortable working in a team and asking questions when needed
• Clear communication and a proactive attitude

What You’ll Gain

• Hands‑on experience in a multidisciplinary engineering environment
• Exposure to advanced hardware technologies and wireless systems
• Mentoring from experienced engineers
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression
• Involvement in real‑world industrial and defence‑sector projects

Clearance Requirements

• Clearance to Start: SC
• Clearance for Role: DV

Benefits

• Contributory Pension Scheme
• Private Medical Insurance
• 33 days Annual Leave (including public and privilege holidays)
• Access to Flexible benefits (including life assurance, health schemes, gym memberships, annual buy and sell holidays, and a cycle-to-work scheme)
• Flexi‑Time

We welcome applications from every part of the community and are committed to a truly diverse and inclusive culture. We foster a sense of belonging, welcoming all perspectives and contributions, and providing equal access to opportunities and resources for everyone. If you have a disability or need any reasonable adjustments during the application and selection please let us know, and we will respond in a way that best fits your needs.

All candidates must be legally entitled to work in the UK. The role is subject to statutory compliance and may require a full background check.