What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Hardware Engineer position at Actalent?
Job Title: Sr Hardware Engineer
Job Description
Join a dynamic team facing a significant challenge in resolving a severe bit error rate problem on a high-speed board. We are seeking an experienced hardware engineer who can effectively address this issue and contribute to the development of cutting-edge technology in high-speed testers. This role offers a long-term contract opportunity with possibilities for conversion.
Responsibilities
- Lead design validation and debugging of 56G PAM4/NRZ SerDes links; identify root causes and implement solutions.
- Operate high-speed scopes (such as Keysight DCA-X/N1000), BERT/pattern generators, and TDR/TDT; execute BER/eye/compliance tests.
- Analyze jitter (Rj/Dj/Pj), CDR behavior, and phase noise impacts; recommend mitigation strategies.
- Evaluate channels using S-parameters, de-embedding, and equalization (CTLE/DFE) to assess loss and crosstalk.
- Collaborate on schematic and layout changes, including back-drilling, launch, and stackup; support quick-turn re-spins.
- Document test plans, results, and changes; communicate trade-offs and progress updates.
Essential Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
- 10 years of experience in hardware engineering (5 years in high-speed SERDES post-college experience acceptable).
- Proven background in high-speed PCB design (20 GBPS) and delivery.
- Strong expertise in high-speed SerDes validation and debugging (e.g., 56G PAM4/NRZ; Ethernet/PCIe/OIF-CEI domain).
- Hands-on experience with high-speed test equipment, including Keysight high-speed scopes (DCA-X/N1000 series or equivalent), BERT/BER testing, pattern generators, and TDR.
- Fundamental knowledge of PCB Design, analog and digital board design.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience with automation using Python/SCPI.
- Knowledge of Ethernet/PCIe compliance.
- Awareness of power-noise impacts for PLL/SerDes rails.
- Additional power supply design skills are beneficial.
Work Environment
This position requires onsite presence, with a hybrid model as needed. Candidates must be able to travel to Oregon site when required and work onsite for hardware-intensive tasks, potentially up to 5 days a week during certain periods. The work involves advanced electronics engineering in an environment focusing on extremely high-speed testers.
Job Type & Location
This is a long term contract position based out of Tualatin, Oregon. Open ended
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $60.00 - $80.00/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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Tualatin,OR.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Nov 5, 2025.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
Salary : $60 - $80