Hardware Design Engineer

Job Title: Hardware Design Engineer

Job Description

A growing RF and antenna solutions company supporting aerospace, defense, and commercial customers is seeking a hands-on Hardware Design Engineer. You will immediately contribute to a critical project in its final phase, focusing on designing and developing hardware for mixed-signal applications.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop hardware for mixed-signal applications, including schematics, component selection, and PCB layout.
• Build and assemble prototype boards through soldering, rework, and hands-on bench work.
• Test and troubleshoot returned boards using lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and voltage supplies.
• Engage in a continuous cycle of design, prototype, and test, ensuring practical application rather than theoretical.
• Support EMI/EMC testing as needed.

Essential Skills

• 5+ years of hardware design experience.
• Hands-on PCB design experience with 4-8 layer boards.
• Experience in mixed-signal and RF design, with demonstrable RF exposure.
• Proficiency with lab equipment, including oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and bench power supplies.
• Experience with CAD/layout tools, with Altium being preferred.
• Soldering and PCB assembly experience.
• US Citizenship required due to ITAR position.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in SDR.
• Experience in EMI/EMC testing.
• Arduino or firmware development experience.
• Portfolio showcasing past designs or products.
• Knowledge of RF components such as filters, amplifiers, antennas, and connectors.
• Understanding of signal integrity.
• Experience with LTSpice or similar simulation tools.
• BOM management and component sourcing experience.
• Ability to read and interpret datasheets.
• Network analyzer experience.
• Self-directed with the ability to work in a fast-moving, small team environment.
• Detail-oriented and comfortable with ambiguity.
• BS in Electrical Engineering or related field preferred, though equivalent hands-on experience is considered.

Work Environment

This role is based on-site in Wake Forest, NC, with hybrid work arrangements considered for local candidates. You will have access to a fully equipped lab space and work within a small, fast-moving team with direct access to leadership. There is potential for follow-on work and long-term opportunities.

This is a Contract position based out of Wake Forest, NC.

The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $55.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Wake Forest,NC.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 24, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.