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Kicad Pcb Layout Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Proficiency in PCB CAD tools (Altium, Eagle, KiCad, or OrCAD) for schematic capture and PCBA layout * Working knowledge of LED technology, LED drivers, and switch‑mode power supplies (or comparable ...

Kicad Pcb Layout information

What is a KiCad PCB layout designer?

A KiCad PCB layout designer is a professional who uses the open-source KiCad software suite to design printed circuit board (PCB) layouts. They create and optimize the physical arrangement of electronic components and the routing of electrical connections on the PCB, ensuring it meets both electrical and manufacturing requirements. Their work involves translating circuit schematics into manufacturable boards while considering signal integrity, component placement, and design rules. KiCad PCB layout designers are essential in the process of developing electronic products, from prototypes to production-ready boards.

What are some common challenges faced when collaborating with hardware engineers as a KiCad PCB layout designer?

As a KiCad PCB Layout Designer, you'll often work closely with hardware engineers to translate schematics into manufacturable board layouts. Common challenges include managing last-minute design changes, resolving component placement constraints, and ensuring signal integrity in high-speed designs. Effective communication and a structured review process are key to addressing these issues, as well as staying updated on best practices in PCB design and DFM (design for manufacturability) requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a KiCad PCB layout designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a KiCad PCB Layout Designer, you need a solid background in electronic circuit design, PCB layout principles, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Proficiency with KiCad EDA software, version control systems, and familiarity with industry standards (such as IPC) are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication with engineers and manufacturers are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate, manufacturable, and reliable PCB designs that meet project requirements and timelines.

What is the difference between Kicad Pcb Layout vs PCB Designer?

AspectKicad Pcb LayoutPCB Designer
CredentialsKnowledge of PCB design software, often self-taught or through coursesProfessional certification or degree in electronics or PCB design
Work EnvironmentDesigning PCB layouts using Kicad software, often in small teams or freelanceUsing specialized PCB design tools in corporate or manufacturing settings
Industry UsageHobbyist, prototyping, small-scale projectsCommercial product development, large-scale manufacturing

While both roles involve PCB layout design, Kicad Pcb Layout is typically associated with hobbyists and small projects using free software, whereas PCB Designer often refers to professionals working in industry with advanced tools and certifications.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Kicad Pcb Layout jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Kicad Pcb Layout job openings:

Infographic showing various Kicad Pcb Layout job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Electrical Hardware Engineer

Norton Shores, MI • On-site

DISHER
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$85 - $110/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Electrical Hardware Engineer – Norton Shores, MI

DISHER is partnering with a leading U.S.-based designer and manufacturer of LED lighting solutions to add an Electrical Hardware Engineer to their growing team. The Electrical Hardware Engineer is responsible for the design, layout, build, and validation of LED-based lighting fixtures for machine vision applications. As an individual contributor, you will own hardware design tasks from concept through production release, working closely with mechanical, software, optical, and test engineering peers to deliver reliable, manufacturable products. You will spend significant time at the bench building, measuring, and troubleshooting, and will produce the schematics, layouts, and documentation that support their products throughout their lifecycle.

What it’s like to work here

The culture is built on five core values: Own It, Lift Others, Build Together, Do the Right Thing, and Raise the Bar. Teams take full ownership of their work from concept through production release, collaborating closely across mechanical, electrical, optical, firmware, test, manufacturing, and quality disciplines to deliver integrated, manufacturable products. Work is hands‑on and practical and engineers build, test, and refine real products side by side, supporting one another and raising the standard on every build.

What you will get to do:
  • Design analog and digital circuits for LED lighting products, including LED drivers, power conversion, signal conditioning, and control interfaces
  • Create schematics and PCB layouts applying sound practices for signal integrity, thermal performance, and EMC
  • Select components and define circuit architecture with documented rationale on cost, availability, and lifecycle
  • Apply thermal analysis and thermal management techniques for high-output LED systems
  • Build, bring up, and debug prototypes hands‑on at the bench; conduct design validation testing
  • Perform failure analysis and root cause investigation on prototype, pilot, and field‑returned units
  • Design to safety and regulatory standards (UL, CE, FCC); support compliance packages and certification testing
  • Develop BOMs, work instructions, and manufacturing documentation for new and revised designs
  • Collaborate cross‑functionally with mechanical, firmware, optical, test, and manufacturing teams
  • Document test plans, validation reports, and engineering records in a clear, repeatable format
What will make you successful:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering highly preferred
  • 3+ years of electrical hardware design experience, concept through production release
  • Proficiency in PCB CAD tools (Altium, Eagle, KiCad, or OrCAD) for schematic capture and PCBA layout
  • Working knowledge of LED technology, LED drivers, and switch‑mode power supplies (or comparable analog/power electronics)
  • Experience with thermal analysis and thermal management in electronic assemblies
  • Proficiency with lab equipment: oscilloscopes, power supplies, electronic loads, DMMs, thermal imaging
  • Skilled in soldering and circuit assembly, including fine‑pitch and surface‑mount rework
  • Circuit troubleshooting, failure analysis, and EMC/EMI compliance design practices
  • Analytical circuit calculation skills (power dissipation, thermal derating, tolerance/worst‑case) using Mathcad, MATLAB, Python, or similar
  • Strong verbal/written communication; self‑directed and able to manage multiple priorities
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