Senior PCB Layout Engineer

Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.

About the Role Firestorm is seeking a Senior PCB Layout Engineer to join our growing hardware team. In this role, you’ll be responsible for executing complex printed circuit board (PCB) designs across our product lines, with a strong focus on performance, manufacturability, and reliability. You’ll drive layout standards, mentor others on best practices, and collaborate closely with electrical, mechanical, and manufacturing teams. This is a highly technical, hands-on position where your deep expertise in high-speed layout, signal integrity, and PCB manufacturing will have a direct impact on Firestorm’s hardware success. What You’ll Do

• Create and manage schematic symbols, footprints, and layout templates in the internal CAD libraries
• Perform advanced floor planning, signal routing, and power distribution for high-complexity boards
• Design multilayer, HDI, flex, and rigid-flex PCBs for space-, weight-, and thermally constrained applications
• Define and manage PCB stack-ups, impedance targets, and signal integrity constraints
• Apply best practices in layout for DFM & DFA
• Execute full PCB design cycles: placement, constraints management, routing, design reviews, and release
• Generate comprehensive engineering documentation, including ECOs, fabrication drawings, BOMs, and release packages
• Partner with PCB fabrication vendors to validate impedance models and stack-up choices for high-volume manufacturability
• Design and maintain cable harness documentation using Altium Harness Designer
• Conduct root cause analysis of PCB design or layout issues, identify corrective actions, and implement solutions to improve performance, manufacturability, or reliability
• Manage multiple PCB layout projects simultaneously by effectively prioritizing tasks, planning, and working independently to meet schedule and quality targets
• Track project timelines and milestones, proactively adjust priorities, and ensure timely delivery while maintaining high-quality standards
• Work cross-functionally with electrical, mechanical, test, and manufacturing teams
• Maintain and evolve Firestorm’s internal layout standards, checklists, and workflows
• Present layout reviews and document design trade-offs and decisions

 Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, or a related technical field
• 5+ years of professional experience in electrical engineering capacity
• Minimum 2+ years of PCB layout and design experience
• Strong proficiency with industry-standard EDA tools (e.g., Altium Designer, Cadence Allegro/OrCAD)
• Deep understanding of PCB stack-ups, impedance control, and high-speed routing techniques
• Experience with multilayer boards including HDI, blind/buried vias, and back-drilling
• Solid knowledge of rigid, flex, and rigid-flex design and manufacturing processes
• Familiarity with signal integrity and transmission line concepts (e.g., phase matching, crosstalk, insertion/return loss, termination, and BGA breakout strategies)
• Ability to manage complex designs from concept to release, including thorough documentation
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills across disciplines
• Strong attention to detail and ability to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• U.S. Person status (Citizen or Permanent Resident) required due to ITAR regulations.

 Preferred Qualifications

• Strong understanding of constraints-driven PCB design methodology
• Proficiency in layout and schematic capture tools such as Altium, Cadence Allegro/OrCAD, Mentor Expedition, or Concept
• Familiarity with signal integrity simulation and analysis tools
• Background in impedance-controlled stack-up design, HDI construction, and manufacturing constraints
• Solid understanding of