Hardware Design Engineer
HEXAD Engineering
Job Description
Hardware Design Engineer with strong experience in electrical, pneumatic, and safety system design for industrial automation equipment. The ideal resource will be capable of developing complete hardware designs, specifying components, and producing detailed schematics and documentation using EPLAN and AutoCAD Electrical. This position works closely with mechanical and controls engineers to ensure cohesive, standards-compliant system designs that meet customer and safety requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and document electrical and pneumatic hardware designs for custom automation systems and control panels
Create detailed electrical schematics, panel layouts, and pneumatic diagrams using EPLAN and/or AutoCAD Electrical
Design, document, and review machine safety circuits in accordance with relevant standards (e.g., ISO 13849, NFPA 79, UL 508A)
Select and specify all hardware components including PLCs, safety relays, drives, contactors, sensors, valves, actuators, and air prep units
Perform FLA (Full Load Amperage), heat dissipation, and 24V Load calculations to ensure proper electrical system sizing
Size and specify FRL (Filter, Regulator, Lubricator) assemblies and calculate SCFM (Standard Cubic Feet per Minute) for machine air systems
Ensure proper grounding, bonding, and circuit protection practices in all designs
Design systems in compliance with GM Global Common and Ford FAST electrical standards
Prepare and maintain GM documentation, including SBS-1B forms, Bills of Material (BOMs), and other required submittals
Collaborate with mechanical engineering to ensure electrical and pneumatic designs integrate seamlessly into machine layouts
Support control panel fabrication, machine build, and system debug
Participate in internal and customer design reviews, focusing on compliance, safety, and reliability
Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of company design standards and processes
Required Qualifications
Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
3+ years of experience in hardware design for automation or industrial equipment
Proficiency in EPLAN and/or AutoCAD Electrical required
Experience with safety circuit design, including risk assessment and validation processes
Familiarity with GM Global Common and Ford FAST specifications strongly preferred
Experience creating and maintaining SBS-1B and BOM documentation
Working knowledge of UL 508A, NFPA 79, ISO 13849, and general grounding and bonding practices
Ability to perform FLA, heat, SCFM, and FRL sizing calculations
Strong understanding of industrial automation components and hardware selection
Excellent teamwork and communication skills for cross-discipline collaboration
Self-motivated and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple projects independently
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