Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Designers

Aspiring designers have three options to obtain experience: earn a college degree and participate in an internship, complete an apprenticeship program, or obtain several years of experience in a lower-level PCB design or assembly position (such as printed circuit board assembler).

PCB designers must know how to use computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing software, read electronic engineering blueprints, and use at least one type of design software (e.g., EAGLE, Altium, Protel). They must have a comprehensive understanding of IPC standards (https://www.electronics.org/ipc-standards) for PCB design and fabrication, as well as be familiar with manufacturing processes and design for manufacturability principles.

Printed circuit board designers need strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with clients and colleagues. They must be highly organized, detail oriented, creative, and have good time-management skills. Other important traits include excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.