Electrical Engineer - Optical & Embedded SystemsStatus: Full-time
Location: Hamilton, ON CANADA
Job Overview:We are seeking an experienced Electrical Engineer to join our growing team in Hamilton, Ontario. In this role, you will lead the electrical architecture and embedded design of our next-generation camera systems, serving as the technical bridge between optical sensors, precision mechanics, and high-performance computing.
You will step into a role defined by technical ownership and end-to-end responsibility. You will drive the development lifecycle for complex embedded subsystems-managing the process from high-level architecture and component selection through to schematic capture, PCB layout, board bring-up, firmware integration, and final EMC/EMI verification.
Unlike traditional siloed engineering roles, you will collaborate daily with mechanical and optical engineers to solve multi-disciplinary challenges. We are looking for an engineer who combines deep knowledge of digital and analog design with a systems-thinking mindset-someone who understands not just how to design a board, but how that board interacts with a high-precision gimbal in an airborne environment.
Key Responsibilities:- Architect and design high-reliability embedded systems, including high-speed digital interfaces (PCIe, MIPI, Ethernet, USB 3.0),precision analog circuitry for sensor integration, and wiring harnesses to integrate them into the gimbal
- Execute the complete hardware lifecycle, from schematic capture and multi-layer PCB layout (Altium Designer preferred) to DFM/DFA analysis and final manufacturing release
- Drive design reviews with a focus on signal integrity, power integrity, and thermal management, ensuring robust performance under harsh environmental conditions
- Champion "First-Time-Right" design principles, utilizing simulation tools (SPICE, HyperLynx) to de-risk complex circuits before fabrication
- Conduct rigorous hands-on debugging and validation of prototypes, utilizing oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and spectrum analyzers to troubleshoot root causes at the system level
- Ensure compliance with aerospace and industrial standards (e.g., DO-160, MIL-STD-810, FCC/CE) regarding EMC/EMI and environmental robustness
- Create and maintain meticulous technical documentation, including block diagrams, interface control documents (ICDs), and verification plans
Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Mechatronics, or equivalent experience
- A minimum of 3 years of experience in embedded hardware design, preferably within aerospace, robotics, or high-end imaging sectors
- Proven track record of taking complex PCB designs from concept to volume production
- Demonstrable experience with high-speed digital design and signal integrity analysis
Required Skills:- Systems Curiosity: A drive to look beyond the PCB to understand how electrical choices impact mechanical stability, optical performance, and thermal dynamics
- Digital & Analog Fluency: Strong foundation in mixed-signal design, including power supply design (SMPS/LDO), sensor interfacing, and high-speed signal routing
- Design Software: ECAD proficiency in PCB design (Altium Designer strongly preferred) with experience in HDI, rigid-flex, and impedance control
- Diagnostic Rigor: meticulous approach to troubleshooting hardware/firmware integration issues, with the ability to isolate faults in complex distributed systems
- Video Interface Knowledge: familiarity with video transport standards (SDI, HDMI, DisplayPort) and image sensor interfaces (MIPI CSI-2, LVDS) is highly desirable
- Compliance Awareness: working knowledge of EMI/EMC design techniques and familiarity with designing for regulatory compliance
- Environment: thrive in a tight-knit, collaborative environment, prioritizing open communication and proactively taking ownership of project outcomes
Desirable Skills and Experience:- Familiarity with electro-optical systems (CMOS/CCD sensors, laser rangefinders, lens control systems)
- Experience in the aerospace or defense industry, specifically with gyro-stabilized systems or UAV payloads
Schedule:- Monday - Friday, with occasional evening/weekend to meet deadlines.
- Travel within Canada and internationally during testing phases may be required.
