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Working Student - Application Engineering, Circuit Simulation, PCB Design & Validation (m/f/d)
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Source: Headcount Labs · original listing ↗
Job data: Headcount Labs, ODbL 1.0. Job descriptions belong to their employers.
Source date: 10/30/2026
About this role
In our Application Engineering department we are helping our customers to develop and deploy advanced test solutions for our latest generation Semiconductor test systems. We are closely collaborating and interfacing with both, customers and internal organizations such as R&D and product marketing. We are working on leading edge technologies in a highly international environment. We are looking for a working student (m/f/d) to support the concept design and circuit evaluation of a cable emulator for 1000BASE-T Ethernet device testing applications. Working closely with the project lead, you will help to translate circuit concepts into simulation models and PCB prototypes, then validate their behavior through laboratory measurements. This role offers hands-on experience in: Hardware development, from simulation and PCB routing to measurement analysis and design refinement. Translating real-world customer application requirements into practical solutions for 1000BASE-T Ethernet device testing. Gaining hands-on experience with laboratory instruments for high-frequency applications, including sampling oscilloscopes, vector network analyzers (VNAs) and time-domain reflectometers (TDRs). Supporting the investigation and resolution of real-world production-test issues through measurement analysis and troubleshooting. Task description: Ethernet cable modeling and simulation: Develop and refine lumped-element models of Ethernet cables, perform frequency- and time-domain circuit simulations, and compare alternative cable-emulator concepts. Circuit evaluation: Investigate component values, tolerances, and parasitic effects and assess their impact on the target electrical response. PCB design and routing: Support schematic preparation, component selection, PCB layout, and differential-pair routing, with attention to impedance control, signal integrity and measurement access. Prototype bring-up: Assist with board inspection, initial electrical checks, and troubleshooting under engineering guidance. Simulation-to-measurement correlation: Compare measurement results with simulations and reference cable measurements, investigate deviations and support model and circuit improvements. Documentation: Record simulation settings, PCB revisions, measurement procedures, and results in clear technical reports. Qualifications: Master's student in Electronic Engineering or Bachelor's student in the final semesters of study Basic knowledge of analog circuits, passive networks, and electronic components Basic understanding of Ethernet PHY functionality, particularly the Physical Medium Attachment (PMA) sublayer in 1000BASE-T applications Initial experience with circuit simulation and/or PCB design through coursework, university projects, or personal projects Interest in signal integrity, Ethernet hardware, and hands-on laboratory work A structured, careful approach to experiments, data analysis, and technical documentation Ability to work independently on clearly defined tasks and discuss results with the project lead Solid English communication skills for technical discussions and documentation