Principal Hardware Engineer

Principal Hardware Engineer

Join to apply for the Principal Hardware Engineer role at Akamai Technologies

Are you ready to define the next generation of cloud server architecture? Do you enjoy hands‑on hardware bring‑up? Join our Server Team! Our Hardware Engineering team designs, qualifies, and scales the server platforms that power Akamai Cloud. We partner closely with OEM/ODM manufacturers to deliver reliable, efficient, and secure platforms from concept through global deployment.

• Owning technical roadmaps for cloud servers and Smart
  
  NIC/DPUs (Blue Field/IPU equivalents)
• Defining requirements, reviewing schematics/layouts, guiding DFM, and driving platform NPI from EVT, DVT, PVT, MP
• Owning platform development for compute and GPU servers
• Leading bring‑up and debugging of boards and systems (power, thermal, storage, networking, manageability)
• Developing and executing validation plans, root‑cause issues across HW, FW, SW
• Collaborating with partners (OEM/ODM, silicon, component suppliers) to develop platform configurations that balance performance, efficiency, supply continuity, and TCO
• Mentoring and developing junior engineers, setting the bar for design reviews, and leading decision making with cross‑functional teams

• 12 years of relevant experience and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering or related field
• Foundation in server architecture and board‑level design/debug, comfortable with low‑level buses and tools (IC, SPI, UART, oscilloscopes)
• Leadership experience with platform validation (power/thermal, signal integrity, storage and PCIe/NVMe qualification, system stress)
• Linux and scripting skills, able to architect test frameworks and parse large data sets
• Track record of vendor leadership and executive‑level communication
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, comfortable speaking in a group setting

We provide benefits surrounding all aspects of your life: health, finances, family, work time, and time pursuing other endeavors. Our benefit plan options are designed to meet individual needs and budget, both today and in the future.

Role requires presence in Cambridge office at least 5 days a week.

Akamai Technologies is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer that values diversity. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race/ethnicity, protected veteran status, disability, or other protected group status.

For US-based candidates, the base salary ranges from $148,200 to $307,800 per year. Compensation is determined by various factors including relevant experience, skills, certifications, and location. Additional incentives may include annual bonus, equity awards, and Employee Stock Purchase Plan.