About this role
Translating schematic diagrams into physical circuit boards forms the core of daily operations for the hardware division at Figure. Operating out of the San Jose office, the engineering team develops general-purpose humanoid robots designed to handle labor shortages and unsafe working environments. The incoming PCB layout designer takes ownership of hardware development for new and existing robotic systems, managing the complete board lifecycle from initial component placement through production readiness. Coordination happens daily alongside electrical, mechanical, and thermal engineering teams to ensure optimal hardware integration.
Created to support rapid hardware scaling, the role exists because the company builds complex humanoid systems requiring advanced multi-layer circuit boards. Engineers who thrive in this environment bring deep technical knowledge of power electronics, robust supplier management skills, and comfort working in an in-office hardware lab setting.
What you will do
- Manage the complete PCB layout process for new and existing hardware designs from initial component placement through final production release.
- Prepare and release precise fabrication and assembly files for manufacturing partners.
- Perform and oversee vendor DFx evaluations to guarantee high manufacturing yields and reliable testability.
- Collaborate closely with electrical, mechanical, and thermal engineering teams during board development.
- Supervise external PCB layout contractors to maintain technical standards and project timelines.
What you need
- Candidates must possess at least 5 years of professional industry experience in PCB design.
- Demonstrated expertise using Altium for complex schematic and layout execution is required.
- Applicants need a strong background designing hardware specifically for power converters ranging from 10W to over 1kW.
- Extensive experience working with flex, rigid-flex, and HDI board designs is necessary.
- A solid understanding of rule-based design principles including creepage, clearance, and high-speed routing is expected.
- Familiarity with EMI and EMC mitigation techniques during the layout phase is required.
- Candidates should be capable of proposing and selecting appropriate materials and stackups while demonstrating a firm grasp of electrical engineering fundamentals.
Nice to have
- Experience with high-speed designs exceeding 8 GHz and RF applications
- Familiarity with simulation software such as ANSYS, Hyperlynx, and Keysight for power electronics or high-speed design
- Experience with high-voltage applications above 60V and associated compliance requirements
- Familiarity with exotic PCB technologies like 3D MID, IMS, embedded coin or bus-bars, embedded passives, and planar transformers
- Experience working with PLM systems
Benefits
- Additional compensation components and benefits depending on the specific role
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
What is the work arrangement for this role?
The team is based in San Jose, California and requires in-office collaboration for all hardware development tasks.
What is the salary range for the PCB Layout Designer position?
The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $150,000 and $250,000 annually. Actual pay offered may vary based on individual factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
What tools and design environments are used?
The team uses Altium for primary layout work. Additional tools like ANSYS, Hyperlynx, and Keysight may be utilized for simulation depending on the project.