Principle Hardware Engineer
A Silicon Valley technology enterprise is seeking a Principal Hardware Engineer for its Product Development Systems group. You will guide embedded computing products from concept through production, developing solutions that strengthen internet infrastructure.
Working alongside accomplished engineers and cross-functional specialists, you will address real-world challenges through advanced technology.The inclusive, collaborative team values expertise, curiosity, knowledge sharing, and mutual support. Flexible working arrangements, comprehensive training, and supportive leadership foster continuous learning and professional growth.
Key Responsibilities:
As Principal Hardware Engineer, you will lead embedded computing product development within the Systems group from concept through production. You will define hardware specifications and test plans, capture schematics using Orcad, and collaborate with layout, mechanical, and signal integrity engineers. Your responsibilities include laboratory system bring-up and engineering validation. You will manage concurrent tasks, hardware builds, and procurement while engaging cross-functional teams in technical discussions. Through collaborative problem-solving and empathy, you will resolve complex technical challenges and help secure critical infrastructure.
- Lead embedded computing system design and product development from concept through production, ensuring quality and reliability.
- Develop hardware specifications and test plans and capture accurate schematics using OrCAD.
- Collaborate with layout, mechanical, signal integrity, and cross-functional teams to complete designs and resolve complex technical issues.
- Perform laboratory system bring-up and engineering validation to verify performance and functionality.
- Manage concurrent tasks, hardware builds, and procurement to ensure timely delivery of components and assemblies.
Key Requirements:
You will bring over ten years of hardware product development experience, with expertise in schematic capture, PCB layout instructions, signal integrity analysis, and Cadence OrCAD and Allegro. Strong knowledge of I2C, SMBUS, SPI, UART, USB, PCIe, and DDR4/DDR5 memory technologies is required. Your background must include DC-DC step-down converter design, x86/Arm servers, and laboratory equipment for system bring-up and design validation. Strong debugging, analytical, and communication skills will support effective cross-functional collaboration. Familiarity with firmware development, Linux, or scripting languages is advantageous but not mandatory.
- At least ten years of hardware engineering experience in product development, including x86/Arm servers and their subsystems.
- Expertise in schematic capture, PCB layout instructions, and signal integrity analysis using Cadence OrCAD and Allegro.
- Strong knowledge of I2C, SMBUS, SPI, UART, USB, PCIe, DDR4/DDR5, display interfaces, and network connectivity protocols.
- Experience designing DC-DC step-down converters and using laboratory equipment for system bring-up and detailed design validation.
- Excellent debugging, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with strong verbal and written communication across teams.
What sets this company apart:
Based in Silicon Valley, this organization offers world-class research facilities and talent networks to professionals tackling real-world challenges and securing critical infrastructure. Its inclusive, collaborative culture values diverse perspectives, open idea sharing, continuous learning, and merit-based employment decisions. Flexible working arrangements, generous training, and supportive leadership encourage professional growth and work-life balance.
What's next:
To learn more, contact Hannah Duran at hannah.duran@robertwalters.com.
About the job
Contract Type: Perm
Specialism: Technology
Focus: Data Engineering
Industry: Engineering
Salary: $180,000 - $260,000 per year + Up to 10% bonus
Workplace Type: On-site
Experience Level: Senior Management
Location: San Jose
FULL_TIMEJob Reference: 1RR4EP-57590735
Date posted: October 26, 2026
Consultant: Hannah Duran
california technology/data-engineering 2026-10-26 2026-12-25 engineering San Jose California US USD 180000 260000 260000 YEAR Robert Walters https://www.robertwalters-usa.com https://www.robertwalters-usa.com/content/dam/robert-walters/global/images/logos/web-logos/square-logo.png true