Hardware Lab Engineer

Job Description

Astera Labs is seeking a Hardware Lab Engineer to join their hardware team. The role involves supporting projects related to assembly, testing, validation, and debugging of printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) and related hardware systems. The Hardware Lab Engineer will collaborate with designers and test/validation engineers to develop world-class connectivity products.

Role involves:

• Performing initial bring-up of new PCBAs, debugging, and validating board functionality.
• Executing test plans for validating electrical performance at the board level.
• Conducting PCB rework and soldering.
• Configuring, calibrating, maintaining, and mediating usage of lab equipment.
• Developing efficient workflows and maintaining lab organization.
• Collaborating with hardware engineers to troubleshoot and resolve hardware issues.
• Documenting validation and bring up results clearly and concisely.
• Developing and maintaining procedures pertaining to lab operations.
• Identifying bottlenecks and recommending improvements to boost efficiency and streamline workflows.

Requirements:

• 5+ years of experience in a hardware lab performing board-level validation, bring-up, testing, and/or related tasks.
• Bachelor's degree in electronics, electrical engineering, or similar field or an associate's degree in the same field with an additional 3+ years of experience.
• Ability to troubleshoot and debug PCBAs using standard test equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, multimeters, power supplies) while documenting results.
• Strong understanding of circuit design, PCBAs, and board-level validation, including fluency in interpreting circuit schematics and board layouts (e.g., via Cadence Allegro).
• Skilled in soldering and rework, including advanced techniques for dense, high-complexity boards.
• Self-starter with the ability to work both independently and as a team to handle open-ended tasks.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to document and formalize procedures from verbal instructions and information gathered during execution.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Astera Labs offers:

• A dynamic work environment.