Job Title: Hardware EngineerLocation: Redmond, WA - onsite Placement Type: 12 month contract to start Top SkillsMust have strong software skills, an optics background is great, this role is very hands on.1. Operating hardware prototypes2. Software or Electrical engineer degree is a must3. fine-pitch soldering 0204. lab environmentJob DescriptionThe Hardware Engineer will work in a hands-on lab environment to operate and support optical hardware prototypes, including PCB boards, electrical flexes, cameras, and LEDs. This role requires a software or hardware engineer with at least 5 years of experience, strong firmware and data analytics skills, and a solid background in hardware and prototype development. The engineer will use existing software tools, perform basic software and hardware troubleshooting, and collaborate closely with a cross-functional team to ensure reliable operation of prototype devices.Responsibilities
- Operate optical hardware prototypes, including PCB boards, electrical flexes, cameras, and LEDs, in a lab environment.
- Use existing software tools, including command line scripts and graphical user interfaces, to control and monitor hardware prototypes.
- Work with on-demand server environments and related software tools to support prototype operation and data collection.
- Perform basic software and hardware troubleshooting, such as interpreting command line outputs, restarting hardware, and resolving common integration issues.
- Train moderators and other users on how to correctly and safely operate prototype devices and associated tools.
- Conduct weekly checks on prototype devices at vendor sites, including driving to and from those locations to verify hardware status and performance.
- Support hardware prototyping and test activities, ensuring that designs are correctly implemented and issues are documented and communicated.
- Collaborate with a team of engineers and technical staff to improve prototype reliability, usability, and test coverage.
- Apply fine-pitch soldering skills (including 020 components) when required to build, repair, or modify prototype boards.
- Maintain an organized and safe lab environment, ensuring that equipment, tools, and prototypes are properly handled and stored.
Essential Skills
- At least 5 years of experience as a software or hardware engineer with hands-on involvement in hardware and prototype development.
- Strong firmware background with the ability to work closely with hardware and embedded systems.
- Experience with data analytics related to hardware or prototype performance.
- Proficiency with common programming languages and command line tools.
- Demonstrated ability to operate optical hardware prototypes, including PCB boards, electrical flexes, cameras, and LEDs.
- Experience using existing software tools, including command line scripts and graphical user interfaces, to control hardware.
- Familiarity with on-demand server environments and remote software tools.
- Basic software and hardware troubleshooting skills, including understanding command line scripts and applying standard practices such as restarting hardware.
- Software or Electrical Engineering degree.
- Ability and willingness to drive to vendor sites for weekly prototype device checks.
- Fine-pitch soldering skills, including work with 020 components.
- Strong hands-on approach and comfort working directly with hardware in a lab setting.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- background in hardware prototyping engineering is highly desirable.
- Experience as a Hardware Test Engineer is a strong plus.
- Electrical Engineering background is beneficial for operating and understanding hardware prototypes.
- Optics background is a strong advantage for working with optical hardware prototypes.
- Experience in a lab environment, including safe handling of electronic components and test equipment.
- Ability to clearly explain technical concepts when training moderators and other non-technical users.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail when diagnosing hardware and software issues.
Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a lab environment within a team of approximately 15 people. The Hardware Engineer will work closely with other engineers and technical staff, using tools and equipment such as PCB boards, electrical flexes, cameras, LEDs, soldering tools for fine-pitch components, and various lab instruments. The work involves regular hands-on interaction with hardware prototypes, use of command line and GUI-based software tools, and occasional travel by car to vendor sites for weekly checks on prototype devices. The environment supports collaboration, practical experimentation, and continuous refinement of hardware prototypes. Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Redmond, WA. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $60.00 - $70.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Redmond, WA. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 6, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Redmond,WA.About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
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