Fractile is a UK based, fast-moving semiconductor start-up building next-generation AI accelerator systems for deployment in data centres. Our work sits at the intersection of high-performance hardware, thermal efficiency, and system scalability.
We are seeking an experienced PCB Layout Engineer to deliver complex, high-speed and high-power PCB designs while also owning PCB library creation, validation, and ongoing management. This role plays a critical part in ensuring electrical performance, manufacturability, and long-term design quality across multiple products.
The ideal candidate combines deep layout expertise with a strong understanding of component footprints, land patterns, and library governance best practices.
Key Responsibilities
PCB Layout & Design Execution
- Create PCB layouts for complex, multi-layer boards supporting high-speed digital and high-power circuits
- Own component placement, routing, and constraint implementation from concept through manufacturing release
- Collaborate closely with hardware designers to resolve layout-driven electrical and mechanical tradeoffs
High-Speed Signal Integrity
- Route high-speed interfaces such as DDR, PCIe, Ethernet, USB, and SerDes-based links
- Apply controlled impedance routing, differential pair tuning, length matching, and return-path management
- Implement SI-aware stack-ups and routing strategies to minimise crosstalk and signal loss
High-Power & Power Integrity
- Layout high-current power paths, including VRMs, DC-DC converters, and power planes
- Optimise copper distribution, plane structures, and via arrays for current handling and low impedance
- Support thermal performance through copper pours, stitching vias, and heatsink interface planning
PCB Library Creation & Management
- Create, validate, and maintain schematic symbols, PCB footprints, and 3D models
- Ensure land patterns meet IPC standards and supplier recommendations
- Own library quality, version control, naming conventions, and release processes
- Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain to ensure component accuracy and lifecycle readiness
- Drive continuous improvement of library standards and documentation
- Participate in schematic reviews, layout design reviews, and SI/PI discussions
- Work with SI/PI engineers to implement simulation-driven layout constraints
- Support DFM/DFA reviews and interface directly with PCB fabricators and assemblers
Manufacturing & Debug Support
- Generate manufacturing deliverables (Gerbers, ODB++, IPC drawings, pick-and-place data)
- Support board bring-up and debug by implementing layout ECOs
- Resolve layout- and footprint-related manufacturing or assembly issues
Qualifications & Experience
- Diploma, Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience in Electronics, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- 7+ years of professional PCB layout experience
- Proven experience with high-speed digital and high-power PCB designs
- Hands-on experience creating and maintaining PCB libraries for production hardware
Technical Skills
PCB layout tools such as Siemens Xpedition, Altium Designer, Cadence Allegro, or equivalent
- Library creation and management workflows
- High-speed routing (DDR, PCIe, Ethernet, USB, SerDes)
- High-current and power integrity layout techniques
- Exceptional attention to detail and design discipline
- Strong ownership mindset for design quality and library integrity
- Effective communicator across hardware, mechanical, and manufacturing teams
- Comfortable managing multiple designs and revisions in parallel
Preferred Experience (Nice to Have)
- Experience with SI/PI simulation-informed layouts
- Familiarity with EMI/EMC-aware layout practices
- Experience with HDI, fine-pitch BGAs, and advanced PCB technologies
- Experience with AI accelerator or HPC hardware