cFocus Software is seeking an experienced
Computer Hardware Engineer to research, design, develop, and test computer and computer-related equipment for critical national security operations. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience in computer hardware engineering and will be responsible for developing and optimizing hardware solutions for DHS’s mission needs. The engineer will also supervise the manufacturing, installation, and integration of these systems, ensuring their performance and security meet the highest standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Research and Design of Hardware Solutions:
- Conduct research to develop new computer hardware systems, components, and configurations to support DHS's complex missions.
- Design and prototype hardware systems that can handle high-security, high-performance, and reliability requirements.
- Evaluate and improve existing hardware systems to meet the evolving technological and security needs of DHS.
- Hardware Development and Testing:
- Develop and test computer and computer-related hardware systems, ensuring compatibility, functionality, and high-performance standards.
- Perform hardware simulations and diagnostic tests to identify and troubleshoot issues related to design or functionality.
- Ensure hardware systems meet operational requirements and government standards, including relevant security certifications.
- Supervision of Manufacturing and Installation:
- Supervise the manufacturing, assembly, and installation of computer hardware systems, ensuring compliance with specifications and quality standards.
- Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure the timely production and integration of computer hardware components.
- Provide oversight of the installation and integration of hardware systems into DHS facilities, ensuring proper functioning in real-world environments.
- Integration with Software Systems:
- Work closely with software engineers and IT teams to ensure that hardware systems integrate seamlessly with the department's software infrastructure.
- Provide technical guidance and recommendations on hardware improvements to optimize the performance of software applications.
- Security and Performance Optimization:
- Ensure that all computer hardware systems are designed with robust security measures to protect against cyber threats and data breaches.
- Optimize hardware performance for computational efficiency, speed, and reliability, ensuring systems meet DHS's operational goals.
- Apply advanced knowledge of hardware security mechanisms to prevent hardware vulnerabilities and enhance overall security posture.
- Documentation and Reporting:
- Document hardware designs, specifications, test results, and installation processes for future reference and compliance purposes.
- Provide technical reports and recommendations to DHS leadership regarding hardware performance, upgrades, and system improvements.
- Ensure proper documentation of all phases of the hardware development lifecycle, from initial research and design to final implementation.
- Collaboration and Leadership:
- Work with multidisciplinary teams, including software engineers, cybersecurity experts, and IT personnel, to develop and integrate hardware solutions.
- Mentor and guide junior engineers in hardware design, testing, and problem-solving.
- Lead efforts to resolve complex technical issues, offering innovative solutions to meet project deadlines and goals.
Qualifications:
- Education:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Experience:
- 8+ years of experience in computer hardware engineering, including research, design, development, and testing of computer hardware and related components.
- Proven experience working with complex hardware systems in commercial, industrial, military, or scientific contexts, with a focus on high-security environments.
- Experience supervising the manufacturing and installation of computer hardware, ensuring systems meet both functional and security requirements.
- Extensive experience working with hardware components like processors, memory, storage devices, networking hardware, and input/output devices.
- Skills and Competencies:
- Strong expertise in the design, testing, and optimization of computer hardware components and systems.
- In-depth knowledge of hardware architecture, computer systems, and integration with software platforms.
- Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex hardware and integration issues.
- Familiarity with cybersecurity principles related to hardware, ensuring secure systems for government and critical infrastructure use.
- Strong communication skills to provide technical reports, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and guide less experienced engineers.
- Certifications (Preferred):
- Certified Hardware Engineer (or equivalent professional certification).
- Experience with security-focused certifications, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or relevant hardware security certifications.
- Knowledge of applicable standards, such as NIST, FISMA, and other federal or industry-specific regulations related to hardware security.
Security Clearance:
Due to the sensitive nature of the role, candidates must possess or be able to obtain the required security clearance.
