Published Date: September 04, 2026
Merge Labs, San Francisco, CA
Job Description:
Merge Labs is a pioneering research lab focused on integrating biological and artificial intelligence to enhance human capabilities. The team is dedicated to developing advanced brain-computer interfaces that are safe, accessible, and capable of high-bandwidth interaction with the brain. They are seeking a Principal/Staff Electrical Engineer to lead the design and validation of core electronic systems that will streamline scientific processes and improve data reliability.
Responsibilities:
- Architect, design, simulate, and verify complex electronics integrating custom ASICs, FPGAs, and high-speed digital interfaces.
- Own critical PCBAs and system-level electrical architecture, addressing SI/PI, grounding, clocking, EMC/EMI, and thermal interactions.
- Develop automated test and characterization infrastructure, including custom hardware and integration firmware.
- Build electronic instrumentation for scientists, transforming bench setups into repeatable workflows.
- Define performance criteria for systems and validate results with documentation for reproducibility.
- Manage technical relationships with design vendors and assembly/test houses, establishing DFT strategies and production requirements.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure electrical systems meet performance and usability standards.
- Mentor engineers and establish best practices for design reviews and hardware integration.
Qualifications:
- Deep experience in designing complex electronic systems with a proven track record in architecture, board bring-up, and manufacturing transfer.
- Advanced mixed-signal expertise, including low-noise analog and high-speed digital integration.
- Strong debugging skills with proficiency in using various electronic testing equipment.
- Practical experience in Python and C/C++ for hardware integration and automated testing.
- A systems mindset focused on calibration, uncertainty, and reproducibility in measurements.
- Experience in delivering manufacturable designs and collaborating with vendors.
Skills:
- Expertise in mixed-signal design and high-speed digital systems.
- Proficiency in electronic testing and debugging tools.
- Strong programming skills in Python and C/C++ for automation and integration.
- Ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and mentor junior engineers.
- Strong analytical skills for defining and validating performance criteria.