Principal Hardware Engineer

Mars; East Hagbourne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading robotics company in Oxfordshire seeks a Principal Hardware Engineer to lead the design and testing of hardware systems for autonomous underwater vehicles. With a focus on developing mission-critical electronics and system architectures, candidates should have over 8 years of experience in hardware engineering and a relevant degree. This role requires proficiency in PCB design and the ability to work in harsh environments. Passion for robotics in the maritime industry is essential.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in hardware engineering, preferably in unmanned systems.
• Hands-on experience designing for harsh environments.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex hardware development efforts.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture and development of hardware systems for underwater unmanned platforms.
• Design and oversee development of custom PCBs and enclosures.
• Evaluate and integrate marine sensors into system designs.

Skills

PCB design and layout tools

Electrical simulation/analysis tools

Signal integrity

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Altium

KiCAD

OrCAD

Job description

A once in a lifetime opportunity has arisen for a passionate Principal Hardware Engineer to join a stealth robotics company based in the Oxfordshire area. This amazing business and AUV submersible robot have massive potential across a range of different industry sectors. The Principal Hardware Engineer will lead the design, integration, and testing of advanced hardware systems for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). In this role, you will be responsible for developing mission‑critical electronics and system architectures that operate reliably in challenging marine environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture and development of hardware systems for underwater unmanned platforms, including power distribution, embedded electronics, sensor integration, and control systems.
• Design and oversee development of custom PCBs, enclosures, and interconnect systems that meet demanding environmental and operational requirements (pressure, corrosion, vibration).
• Evaluate and integrate marine sensors (e.g., sonar, cameras, DVLs, IMUs) and actuators into system designs, ensuring compatibility and performance under water.
• Develop and implement robust electrical and communication interfaces (e.g., Ethernet, RS‑232/485, CAN, I2C, SPI) for high‑reliability operation.
• Lead hardware system integration and testing, including pressure testing, EMI/EMC validation, and underwater operational trials.
• Collaborate closely with software, mechanical, and systems engineers to ensure cohesive design and successful system‑level integration.
• Generate and maintain comprehensive documentation including schematics, BOMs, test plans, design justifications, and regulatory compliance records.
• Support field testing and deployments, including troubleshooting and field‑based system diagnostics.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in hardware engineering, preferably in unmanned systems, robotics, or rugged embedded systems.
• Proficiency in PCB design and layout tools (e.g., Altium, KiCAD, OrCAD) and electrical simulation/analysis tools.
• Hands‑on experience designing for harsh environments—including pressure, saltwater exposure, and thermal constraints.
• Strong understanding of signal integrity, grounding, shielding, and EMI/EMC considerations.
• Familiarity with underwater communication systems (e.g., acoustic modems, fiber optics, RF through water).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex hardware development efforts from concept through deployment.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with low‑power design, battery management systems, and subsea power architectures.
• Knowledge of safety and regulatory standards for marine or defense systems.
• Prior work on AUVs, ROVs, or similar subsea robotics platforms.

If you're passionate about robotics within the maritime industry and the autonomous vehicle and unmanned vehicle industry, this Principal Hardware Engineer role is not to be missed. Candidates must be British Citizens or have lived in the UK for a minimum of 5 years, due to needing SC clearance. Please get in touch ASAP.

MARS Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer and positively welcomes applications from suitably qualified applicants regardless of race, colour, sex, marital status, national origin, religion, age, disability, or any other protected status.