Staff Hardware Engineer

HP Tuners LLC; Buffalo Grove (IL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

401(k) with employer matching

Paid time off (PTO)

Job summary

HP Tuners LLC is seeking a full-time Staff Hardware Engineer to work on innovative hardware and software products in Buffalo Grove, IL. The role involves leading hardware projects, developing embedded systems, and collaborating with various teams. Ideal candidates will have over 10 years of hardware development experience, strong PCB design skills, and excellent problem-solving abilities. The position offers an estimated salary range of $140,000 – 170,000 along with comprehensive benefits and a discretionary bonus.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of hands-on experience and a proven track record in hardware development.
• 10+ years of PCB design experience using ECAD tools.
• 5+ years of PCB layout experience within the last 10 years.

Responsibilities

• Develop full system embedded architecture for new products.
• Lead the design and development of hardware projects from concept to production.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of hardware solutions.

Skills

Hardware development

PCB design

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Technical leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Altium Designer

Job description

HP Tuners is currently seeking a full-time Staff Hardware Engineer to join our team in Buffalo Grove, IL. At HP Tuners, we develop hardware and software products to suite the aftermarket needs of automotive enthusiasts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in hardware design and development, with a proven track record of taking projects from concept to production. This role requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams.

This is an on-site position and requires the candidate to work in our Buffalo Grove, IL office (relocation assistance is available).

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative full system embedded architecture for new products
• Lead the design and development of hardware projects from concept through production
• Take into consideration and balance functional requirements, maintainability, reusability, scalability, extensibility, and cost effectiveness
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including software, mechanical, and sourcing to ensure seamless integration of hardware solutions
• Perform schematic entry and layout using Altium Designer
• Prepare PCB projects for manufacturing
• Prototype and test new hardware designs
• Debug and validate electronic circuits
• Participate in the board bring‑up process by working side‑by‑side with the firmware team
• Being able to write proof‑of‑concept firmware applications is a plus
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to fellow hardware engineers
• Develop detailed design specifications, schematics, and documentation
• Work with suppliers to source components and finished assemblies
• Manage project requirements and deadlines; work with the Project Management team on creating and maintaining project schedules
• Develop and break down functional requirements into well‑defined tasks
• Perform peer design reviews
• Provide expert technical input into product planning and concepts
• Further knowledge of new development processes in the field and leverage new advancements when appropriate
• Conduct technical research and studies into new technologies, providing recommendations to engineering management

Qualifications and Skills

• 10+ years of hands‑on experience and a proven track record in hardware development
• 10+ years of PCB design experience using ECAD tools (Altium Designer or similar)
• 5+ years of hands‑on PCB layout experience, of which at least 3 years were within the last 10 years
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience
• Proven track record of technical leadership
• Demonstration of a successful track record in managing complex problems and providing innovative solutions
• Extensive circuit prototyping experience
• Circuit testing and debugging skills
• Circuit simulation experience
• Experience with advanced PCB design skills such as impedance control and length matching
• Friendly, flexible, and a team player
• Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work autonomously while meeting required deadlines
• Good problem‑solving skills
• Open‑minded, positive approach to problem solving and working with others
• Proven experience working in a fast‑paced environment to agreed upon timelines
• Demonstration of excellent judgment and decision‑making abilities

Relevant Experience

• Experience designing microcontroller/microprocessor‑based systems
• Experience taking a project from concept all the way to production
• Ability to diagnose issues that may span hardware, firmware, and system software
• Experience with instrumentation like oscilloscopes, logic/protocol analyzers for debugging embedded systems at HW level
• Experience with automotive OBD‑II On‑Board Diagnostics and Vehicle Communication protocols is a plus

Physical Requirements

• Working conditions: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and work at a desk or workbench for prolonged periods of time.

Salary and Benefits

At HP Tuners LLC, we understand that compensation plays a key role when considering a new opportunity. We are dedicated to ensuring fair pay for all employees and continually work towards greater transparency in our compensation practices. The estimated base salary range for this position is $140,000 – 170,000, with actual pay determined based on location, skills, experience, and other relevant considerations. This position also qualifies for a discretionary bonus and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage, paid time off (PTO), and a 401(k) program with employer matching.

HP Tuners LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to sex, race, age, disability, religion, national origin, color, or any other protected class.