Hardware Design Manager

Role Overview We are seeking a highly experienced Hardware Design Lead / Technical Architect to serve as the principal technical authority for the hardware and mechanical design of our next-generation Gigabit Ethernet Switch for rolling stock applications. The ideal candidate will possess deep, hands-on expertise across high-speed hardware design, mechanical engineering, thermal management, and railway compliance standards (EN 50155, EN 50121-4, EN 61131-2) . This role demands proven technical leadership in driving product hardware architecture from initial concept and specification through to mass manufacturing and certification. Key Responsibilities Hardware Architecture & Design Leadership Define and own the end-to-end hardware architecture, component selection, and design of the ruggedized Ethernet switch, including high-speed digital, power supply (24–110 VDC), and signal/power integrity. Lead the mechanical design for the rugged IP67/IP65 enclosures, ensuring optimal thermal management, shock/vibration resistance, and integration of M12 connectors. Direct the implementation of complex features such as PoE (IEEE 802.3bt) design and thermal dissipation solutions. Provide technical guidance and oversight for the integration of firmware, platform software, and cybersecurity features with the base hardware platform. Compliance & Certification Own the technical compliance strategy for railway and fire safety standards, specifically EN50155, EN50121-4, and EN 61131-2 . Direct the design-for-compliance activities (EMC, shock, vibration) and lead technical efforts during external certification testing (IEC 61373, EN50121-3-2 ). Perform detailed design analysis, including reliability predictions (MTBF) and component obsolescence management. Cross-Functional Technical Alignment Act as the primary technical point of contact with internal firmware, software, mechanical and manufacturing teams, ensuring seamless electromechanical-software integration. Collaborate with vendors and supply chain partners for critical component selection, technical benchmarking, and manufacturing process validation (e.g., molding, box-build). Present technical roadmaps, architecture reviews, and design choices to executive stakeholders. Requirements 8+ years of hands-on experience in high-speed embedded systems, industrial networking, or ruggedized hardware design. Minimum of 3+ years on Industrial Networking switch products. Proven track record as a Hardware Architect or Lead Design Engineer for Ethernet switch products in rail or industrial applications. Deep expertise in Mechanical Design for rugged enclosures (IP65/IP67), thermal management (simulations and testing), and industrial connectors (M12). Strong knowledge of EN 50155, EN 50121-4, EN 61131-2, and IEEE 802.3bt (PoE) standards is mandatory. Solid understanding of advanced networking protocols (RSTP, MRP, PRP/HSR) and Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN). Excellent technical leadership, problem-solving, and cross-functional communication skills. Skills High-speed digital design, Signal Integrity (SI) and Power Integrity (PI) analysis. Advanced Mechanical Design and thermal simulation tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Ansys). PoE system design (af/at/bt) and protection circuitry. Regulatory compliance, certification testing, and failure analysis. Hardware/Firmware/Software integration for ruggedized platforms. Nice to have - Cybersecurity-aware hardware design (IEC 62443 awareness). Nice to have - Proficiency in German language Education B.E./B.Tech in Electronics, Electrical, or Computer Engineering. M.Tech preferred.