Ruggedized RF PCB Layout Engineer

Actalent; Columbia (MD); On-site; USD 83,000 - 103,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) retirement plan

Life Insurance

Disability coverage

HSA

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a PCB Layout Designer for a contract position in Columbia, MD. The role focuses on developing complex multilayer PCB layouts using Altium Designer for RF, analog, digital, and mixed-signal circuitry in a ruggedized, space-flight environment.

You will translate schematics into manufacturable designs, support RF/microwave considerations, and collaborate with electrical and mechanical engineers to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

Qualifications

• Requires a degree in electrical or related engineering field.
• 5+ years of PCB layout experience using Altium Designer.
• Proven experience designing complex multilayer boards for RF and mixed-signal apps.
• Strong understanding of schematic capture and layout processes from concept to release.
• Hands-on with high-speed digital design and layout techniques.

Responsibilities

• Develop complex multilayer PCB layouts using Altium Designer for RF, analog, digital, and mixed-signal circuitry.
• Create/manufacture board stackups, design rules, fabrication drawings, and assembly docs for manufacturing/testing.
• Translate schematics into manufacturable PCB designs with high reliability in rugged environments.
• Support RF/microwave board considerations including controlled impedance routing and shielding techniques.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineering for proper form, fit, and function in rugged space-flight hardware.
• Participate in design reviews and provide layout strategy recommendations for manufacturability and reliability.
• Interface with vendors to resolve manufacturing issues and support prototype builds.
• Perform DFM/DFT checks and prepare release-ready design documentation.
• Support trade studies on board architecture, packaging constraints, thermal management, and reliability.
• Contribute to developing PCB design standards and best practices for high-reliability electronics.

Skills

RF layout

Multilayer PCB

High-speed design

Schematic capture

DFM/DFT

Signal integrity

EMI/EMC

Power distribution

Mechanical collaboration

Altium Designer

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Altium Designer

Job description

Actalent is seeking a PCB Layout Designer for a contract position in Columbia, MD. The role focuses on developing complex multilayer PCB layouts using Altium Designer for RF, analog, digital, and mixed-signal circuitry in a ruggedized, space-flight environment.

You will translate schematics into manufacturable designs, support RF/microwave considerations, and collaborate with electrical and mechanical engineers to ensure optimal performance and reliability.