Staff Engineer PCBA DFM Hardware

About the role

Google is seeking a Staff DfM/Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Engineer to serve as the principal technical authority for printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) design for manufacturing (DfM) across its consumer hardware portfolio, including phones, watches, and hearables. The role bridges product design and mass production, supporting custom silicon solutions for Google’s direct-to-consumer products.

Responsibilities

• Own the technical roadmap for SMT process integration.
• Qualify next-generation component technologies.
• Lead failure analysis task forces during product ramps.
• Influence product design teams early in development and partner with global tier-one contract manufacturers.
• Conduct high-risk CAD layout reviews and component-level failure analysis.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 10 years of experience in high-density consumer hardware design, PCBA, and DFM.
• Experience in SMT process integration, high-risk CAD layout reviews, and component-level failure analysis.
• Preferred: Master’s degree or PhD in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Preferred: Advanced understanding of solder metallurgy, intermetallic compound formation, SAC305/405 properties, and low-temperature solders.
• Preferred: Industry leadership demonstrated through patents, published technical papers, or active contributions to industry standards bodies.

Key facts

• The role covers PCBA design for manufacturing across Google’s consumer hardware portfolio.
• The role owns the technical roadmap for SMT process integration.
• Requires 10 years of experience in high-density consumer hardware design, PCBA, and DFM.
• Preferred qualifications include advanced knowledge of solder metallurgy and low-temperature solders.