Hardware Lab Engineer

Overview

Astera Labs Inc. seeks an experienced and self-driven Hardware Lab Engineer to join our dynamic hardware team in developing world-class connectivity products.

Job Description

This role will work closely with designers and test/validation engineers to support a variety of projects, including assembly, testing, bringing up, validation, and debugging of printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) and related hardware systems. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of circuits, hands-on Experience with PCBAs, and the Ability to work on complex, open-ended tasks with minimal oversight.

Key Responsibilities

· Perform initial bring-up of new PCBAs, debugging and validating board functionality

· Execute test plans for validating electrical performance at the board level

· PCB rework and soldering

· Configure, calibrate, maintain, and mediate usage of lab equipment

· Develop efficient workflows and maintain lab organization for optimal productivity

· Collaborate with hardware engineers to troubleshoot and resolve hardware issues

· Document validation and bring up results clearly and concisely

· Develop and maintain procedures pertaining to lab operations

· Identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to boost efficiency and streamline workflows

Required Qualifications

· 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

Preferred Qualifications

· 8+ years of Experience in a hardware lab performing board-level validation, bring-up, and testing complex prototypes

· Ability to hand solder 0201 components

· Experience with complete inventory management and asset tracking

· Experience with assembling and maintaining server racks or similar hardware systems

· Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs safely

The base salary range is $120,000 - $190,000. Your base salary will be determined based on location, Experience, and similar-position employees' pay.