Electronic Prototype Engineer (Hardware & Mechanical Integration)

£30,000 – £35,000 per annum

Role Overview

We are looking for a hands-on Electronic Prototype Engineer to convert circuit schematics into fully functional prototype devices. This role combines electronics assembly, wiring, and mechanical integration, requiring someone comfortable working across both electrical and physical build environments.

Key Responsibilities

Electronics & PCB Assembly

• Interpret circuit diagrams, schematics, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) to build working prototypes
• Assemble, solder, and rework PCBs, including both through-hole and surface-mount components
• Perform fine-pitch SMD assembly and rework using appropriate tools and techniques
• Carry out PCB modification, repair, and rework as required
• Inspect PCB assemblies to ensure they meet quality and workmanship standards

Wiring & Integration

• Design and implement internal wiring layouts for prototype devices
• Build and terminate wire harnesses to a high professional standard

Mechanical Assembly & Enclosure Integration

• Assemble electronic prototypes into enclosures
• Perform light mechanical fabrication as needed
• Work confidently with plastics, metals, and 3D printed components

Prototype Development & Iteration

• Troubleshoot issues and refine prototype builds
• Suggest improvements for manufacturability, reliability, and performance
• Maintain accurate build, inspection, and test documentation

Skills & Experience Required

Essential

• Strong soldering skills, including surface-mount (SMT/SMD)
• Proven experience in PCB assembly and rework
• Ability to read and interpret circuit diagrams and technical drawings
• Hands-on prototype build experience
• Mechanical assembly skills
• Proficiency with electronic test equipment (e.g. multimeters, oscilloscopes)
• Experience with wiring and cable/harness assembly
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

Desirable

• IPC certification (e.g. IPC-A-610 Certified IPC Specialist – CIS)
• Familiarity with IPC/WHMA-A-620 (cable and harness assemblies)
• Knowledge of IPC standards (IPC-A-610, IPC-7711/7721)
• Experience working in product development or R&D environments

Working Hours

The standard working week is 38 hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 8:00am – 5:00pm (with a 30-minute unpaid lunch break from 12:30pm to 1:00pm)
• Friday: 8:00am – 1:00pm

Benefits

• Subsidised Private Health Insurance (available after 12 months’ service)
• Workplace pension
• Life assurance

Personal Attributes

• Hands-on, practical, and detail-oriented approach
• Able to work independently and take ownership of builds
• Strong focus on quality and workmanship standards
• Adaptable and comfortable in a fast-paced prototyping environment

Key Deliverables

• Fully functional, tested prototype devices
• High-quality PCB assemblies meeting IPC standards
• Professionally assembled wiring and enclosure integration
• Clear inspection records, test documentation, and design feedback