We are seeking a Principal PCB Layout Designer using PADS based out of Cincinnati, OH. As a Principal PCB Layout Design Engineer at Northrop Grumman, you will have a challenging and rewarding opportunity to support the design and delivery of high reliability circuit card assemblies for aerospace, defense, and space flight applications. You will collaborate across electrical, mechanical, manufacturing, and signal integrity disciplines to transform complex electrical architectures and schematics into robust, production ready printed circuit board solutions. The successful candidate will be collaborative, open, and team oriented, with a focus on shared responsibility, continuous learning, and a culture of innovation and technical excellence. For this role, responsibilities include but are not limited to: Execute the placement and routing of complex, high density, multi layer printed circuit boards (PCBs), including high speed digital, RF, mixed signal, and power circuits Interpret electrical schematics, constraints, and mechanical boundaries to develop optimized PCB layouts that meet performance, reliability, and manufacturability requirements Generate and maintain complete PCB and circuit card assembly (CCA) fabrication and assembly documentation packages, including artwork, drawings, fabrication notes, and data outputs for procurement and assembly partners Apply current IPC and high reliability industry standards, as well as applicable military and aerospace criteria, in the design and verification of printed wiring boards and circuit card assemblies Collaborate closely with electrical, mechanical, manufacturing, and signal integrity engineers to address layout related design challenges involving signal integrity, power integrity, thermal management, and packaging Support and perform Design for Manufacturing (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA), and Design for Test (DFT) reviews using automated and manual checks to improve yield, test coverage, and product robustness Work with fabrication and assembly suppliers to understand manufacturing capabilities and constraints and incorporate them into PCB designs Support PCB library management practices, ensuring correct use of symbols, footprints, and parameter data in accordance with internal workflows Independently own PCB layout tasks from concept through fabrication data release in support of program cost, schedule, and technical requirements Lead advanced PCB layout efforts using technologies such as High Density Interconnect (HDI), microvias, via in pad, backdrilling, and specialized substrate materials; provide technical guidance, peer reviews, and mentoring to other layout designers
