Samtec is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer with expertise in high-speed optoelectronic platforms to join our Vista, CA team. If you enjoy solving complex technical challenges and seeing your work come to life, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

In this position, you will drive the design, analysis, and development of advanced fiber-optic transceivers and supporting hardware, working across optoelectronics, high-speed circuits, and system-level design in a collaborative R&D environment.

This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer who enjoys building, testing, and refining hardware while contributing to next-generation connectivity solutions.

What You'll Experience:
• High-impact technical ownership influencing product performance and innovation
• Hands-on involvement in R&D and new product development
• Strong autonomy from concept through implementation
• Collaboration with a skilled, forward-thinking engineering team
• Exposure to advanced technologies shaping next-generation designs

Essential Functions / Responsibilities:
• Design of high-speed and high-precision electronics, including experience with firmware-enabled systems. Application of power integrity and RF signal integrity principles and simulation techniques.
• Understanding of fundamental optical data communication systems principles and optical signal integrity impairments, particularly in multi-mode fiber-optic systems. Familiarity with optical communication standards, 1G NRZ to 100G PAM4
• Experience with a broad range of DC/RF/Optical test and measurement techniques and equipment with hands-on skills needed to prototype, bring-up, debug, and characterize electrical/optical systems.

Preferred Skills:
• Strong analytical skills with an emphasis on understanding and applying fundamental principles. Ability to synthesize a broad range of complex inputs and apply rigorous processes to drive critical outcomes.
• Strong coding skills across multiple platforms, including familiarity with database systems. Familiarity with statistical and algorithmic data analysis techniques as well as novel AI approaches.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. Comfortable engaging with vendors and customers. Ability to develop and document requirements, implementation details, user guidelines, and product specifications.
• Good organizational skills and ability to lead small technical teams.
• Understanding of PCB fabrication and assembly technologies. Experience working with PCB fabricators and assemblers to define layer stack-ups, converge DFM reviews, and resolve SMT assembly issues.
• Familiarity with the interplay of optical, mechanical, thermal, and electrical considerations in the design of optical transceivers. Basic understanding of optics principles involved in fiber-optic coupling. Working knowledge of basic mechanical design principles including materials, fabrication techniques, and tolerancing.
• Familiarity with bare-metal firmware implementation and FPGA-based systems, particularly including high-speed serial I/O.
• Development of test concepts and novel test solutions for EVT/DVT and production.

Required Experience:

• 15+ years of experience in hardware design, fiber optic communication, and related fields.
• Success in creating and maturing new technologies from concept through early validation.
• Proven record of technical leadership and independent problem solving.

Education:

• BS in Electrical Engineering or a related field required.
• MS or Ph.D. preferred.

Salary and benefit offerings:

The salary range for this position is $190,000 - $225,000 annually, based on experience, plus generous Samtec bonuses paid three times per year (February, August, and late fall). Samtec offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical (HSA/PPO), dental, vision, group life, AD&D, short- and long-term disability, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), 401(k) with company match, profit sharing, and a variety of voluntary benefit options, along with paid time off.