Hardware Design Engineer

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Hardware Design Engineer. Location: Palo Alto, California, United States

The role focuses on creating, testing, and optimizing analog, digital, and electro-optic hardware that forms the backbone of PsiQuantum’s quantum computers.

Responsibilities:

• Design and create schematics for analog and digital circuitry including high-speed transceivers, 10+ Gbps electrical and optical data links, FPGAs, microcontrollers, clock distribution, and power distribution.
• Oversee PCB layout and ensure signal integrity and EMI suppression.
• Develop and implement test setups for electro-optic modules;
• Characterize, optimize, and debug analog, digital, and electro-optic circuitry using tools like mixed signal and sampling oscilloscopes, vector network analyzers, signal generators, multimeters, and DC power supplies;
• Develop software to drive measurements and analyze data to extract key performance parameters.
• Maintain detailed documentation of hardware designs, test results, and design changes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across sites and time zones.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree with 12 years of relevant experience, or Bachelor’s degree with 8–15 years of relevant experience.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Results-oriented with the ability to deliver on commitments;
• Proven team player with effective communication skills across technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience in hardware design and characterization of analog, digital, and electro-optic systems.

Preferred:

• Experience with silicon photonics or large-scale quantum hardware systems.
• Knowledge of FPGA programming, high-speed PCB design, or advanced semiconductor processes.
• Familiarity with quantum system architecture or quantum control hardware.

Software and Tools:

• Orcad Schematic Capture and Allegro PCB Layout
• C++, Python, RTL (VHDL or Verilog)
• Keysight PathWave ADS
• Microsoft Office

Benefits and Compensation:

• U.S. Base Pay Range: $230,000 - $250,000 USD
• Bay Area Pay Range: $240,000 - $260,000 USD
• Full-time roles are eligible for equity and benefits
• Competitive compensation package with opportunity for career growth