HARDWARE ENGINEER

On behalf of our client, Procom is searching for a Hardware Engineer for a full-time, onsite contract role. This position is based at our client’s Ottawa, ON office, with a requirement to work five days a week onsite.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

We are seeking an experienced Hardware Engineer to lead the design, development, and validation of RF circuits within the Radio Unit ecosystem, primarily focusing on 4G/5G radio technology. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of taking RF hardware to volume production and have deep expertise in RF system architecture, component selection, and regulatory standards. This role demands a collaborative leader who can coordinate cross-disciplinary efforts from schematic design to manufacturing.

MANDATORY SKILLS:

• Proven record designing RF circuits in the Radio Unit ecosystem and taking hardware to volume production.
• Hands on experience in 4G/5G radio development and RU/subsystem architecture and implementation.
• Strong command of 3GPP specifications and global spectrum/regulatory considerations.
• Advanced understanding of DPD and its implications across the RF chain.
• High proficiency with RF lab equipment (VNA, spectrum/signal analyzers, signal generators, power meters, etc.).
• Proficiency with Cadence Concept HDL/Allegro and RF simulation tools (ADS, AWR, MATLAB).
• Organized, goal oriented technical leader who collaborates effectively across disciplines.

NICE-TO-HAVE SKILLS:

• 7+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent mix of education and experience).
• Experience with PA linearization, calibration (factory/field), and defining factory test strategies with CMs/ODMs.
• Participation in next generation architecture investigations/proposals.
  Assignment Length: 12 months
  Location: Onsite, Ottawa, O

• Own the RF signal chain for 5G Radio Units (e.g., LNAs, mixers, PLLs/synthesizers, filters, switches, drivers, PAs), with emphasis on low power and high performance.
• Create link budgets and frequency plans; lead trade off analyses to ensure compliance with black box/system requirements under constraints (component availability, thermal, power).
• Drive component selection and vendor technical engagement; guide DFM/DFT and oversee NPI/volume ramp with manufacturing partners.
• Produce clear technical documentation: Design Specs, Verification Plans/Reports, and factory test/calibration requirements.

Implementation

• Perform schematic capture and define layout constraints using Cadence Concept HDL and Allegro.
• Use RF simulation and modeling tools (Keysight ADS, AWR Microwave Office, MATLAB) including EM/Co-sim as needed to de risk designs.

Validation & Test

• Lead brings up and characterization at board, module, and RU level; measure and optimize gain, NF, P1dB, IP3, ACLR, EVM, phase noise, return loss, and related KPIs.
• Develop and execute verification plans; automate tests where practical; collaborate with software for calibration/control to ensure robust HW/SW integration.

Collaboration & Leadership

• Partner with system, digital, software, thermal, and mechanical leads on RU architecture and design integration.
• Mentor junior designers and review their work; contribute to invention disclosures/patents.
• Maintain strong vendor relationships and lead device selection decisions.