Lead PCB Designer-Satellite Technology

About MDA Space:

Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space (TSX:MDA) is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. The MDA Space team of more than 3,000 space experts in Canada, the US and the UK has the knowledge and know-how to turn an audacious customer vision into an achievable mission – bringing to bear a one-of-a-kind mix of experience, engineering excellence and wide-eyed wonder that’s been in our DNA since day one. For those who dream big and push boundaries on the ground and in the stars to change the world for the better, we’ll take you there.

 

Role:

As a Lead PCB Designer in our Satellite Systems team, you will lead a talented group of hardware designers throughout the full lifecycle of high-speed, mixed-signal (Digital & RF) PCB development. This role provides a unique opportunity to work from concept through to the implementation of advanced multilayer PCBs (20+ layers) used in cutting-edge satellite and space applications.

We’re looking for someone as passionate about mentoring and supporting people as they are about tackling the unique challenges of space. You will not only design advanced technologies—like digital control systems, onboard processors, mass-memory units, and motor drive units for space missions—but also guide and inspire the next generation of engineers.

 

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design of high-speed Digital/Analog PCBs
• Translate board-level requirements into detailed design concepts.
• Collaborate with FPGA, software, and test designers to finalize designs.
• Oversee schematic design, technology risk assessment, and Design for Manufacture/Test (DFM/DFT).
• Manage PCB layout constraints, parts placement, and manufacturing drawings.
• Perform or review circuit simulations and design analyses (SPICE, Hyperlynx, FMECA, etc.).
• Lead the integration of PCB designs with thermal, structural, and packaging requirements.
• Supervise board assembly, testing, and troubleshooting for space missions.

 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of experience designing high-speed digital, analog, or mixed-signal PCBs.
• Knowledgeable about PCB manufacturing processes
• Extensive experience with RF, signal processing, or high-speed designs.
• Strong mentoring skills and experience leading multi-disciplinary design reviews.
• Proficiency with tools like SPICE, Hyperlynx, Matlab, and schematic entry software (e.g., Mentor Xpedition, OrCAD).
• Knowledge of radiation effects and ruggedized designs considered an asset

 

Comments/Special Considerations:

Successful candidates must obtain and hold security clearance at the reliability status level, and pass security assessment for the Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and ITAR. 

Benefits statement:

MDA provides competitive compensation and benefits packages for its employees at all locations. As a team member of MDA, you and your qualified dependents are eligible to participate in a benefit plan that ensures a comprehensive level of protection through competitive health care including; extended healthcare and flexible drug plans, dental and vision benefits, disability income protection, life insurance, group retirement savings plans; and an employee and family assistance program.

Equal opportunity statement:

MDA Space is proud to provide accommodation(s) during the recruitment process.  Should you require any accommodations, please indicate this on your application/cover letter and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs.