What does an IoT hardware developer do? A brief insight into an exciting job profile
The Internet of Things connects devices, systems and sensors to create an intelligent world. Whether in the smart home, in industry or in healthcare - smart solutions are based on powerful hardware. But who actually ensures that all these systems work reliably? This is where the hardware developer in the IoT sector comes into play. In this article, we show what makes this profession so special, what tasks await you and why it offers an exciting career opportunity right now.
What does a hardware developer do in the IoT sector?
A hardware developer in IoT is responsible for the design, selection and testing of electronic components that are used in networked devices. The job combines creative engineering with a detailed technical understanding and plays a central role in the development of products that communicate, measure, control or transmit data.
Why is the job so exciting?
The profession of hardware developer in the IoT sector is particularly exciting because it encompasses an extraordinary variety of technologies. From smart home applications and industrial automation to networked medical devices – the possible applications are almost limitless. You have the opportunity to contribute to innovative developments that can improve people’s lives in the long term. What’s more, the profession is always challenging and varied due to the rapid pace of technological progress. If you are enthusiastic about electronics and wireless communication, you will find a job here that combines creative thinking with technical precision and offers new, exciting tasks every day.
Tasks and responsibilities
The tasks of a hardware developer in IoT are varied and require a broad range of knowledge and creativity. Key activities include:
1. Hardware design
The development of circuit diagrams and PCB layouts using tools such as Altium Designer, KiCad or Eagle is the centrepiece of the work. The aim here is to design electronic systems efficiently and in a space-saving manner.
2. Component selection
The selection of suitable components is crucial. A hardware developer evaluates criteria such as energy consumption, temperature range, EMC behaviour and price-performance in order to find the best components for the project.
3. Prototyping & testing
The development of prototypes, the performance of practical tests, EMC measurements and the optimisation of energy efficiency and radio performance are also typical tasks of hardware developers.
4. Radio technology and high-frequency design
Hardware development also includes high-frequency technology. Many IoT devices use wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, Thread or LoRaWAN. This means that hardware developers often have to deal with the design and tuning of antenna systems and the analysis of signal paths.
5. Approval and certification
The approval and certification of devices includes preparation for regulatory requirements such as CE, RED or FCC as well as documentation and coordination with external test centres.
6. Team collaboration
Close collaboration with software and firmware development, product management and production to create market-ready IoT solutions.
7. Technological environment
A typical working day in the IoT hardware sector involves dealing with embedded systems, low-power designs, real-time operating systems and secure communication protocols. Interfaces such as I2C, SPI or UART are just as relevant as knowledge of analogue and digital circuit technology.
Would you like to bring your passion for electrical engineering and IoT to exciting projects?
Become part of our team! Apply now and develop the next generation of networked devices with us.
What skills should a hardware developer in the IoT sector have?
The job description requires a combination of technical expertise, team spirit and a desire to innovate. The most important skills include:
- Experience in electronics development and PCB design: a deep understanding of circuits, signal processing and microcontroller systems is essential.
- Familiarity with CAD software and simulation tools: Tools such as Altium Designer or Eagle are part of the standard repertoire.
- Understanding of interfaces to software development: Hardware development is not an isolated activity. Close collaboration with software and firmware development is often required to create market-ready IoT solutions.
- Knowledge of wireless technologies: Wireless communication is a core aspect of IoT. Experience with typical protocols and their challenges is a plus.
- Analytical mindset: A great care for testing and finding and fixing bugs is a core competency especially in the context of prototyping & testing.
- Enjoy complex tasks & technical exchange: New challenges are not uncommon in the Internet of Things and require collaborative, innovative approaches and unconventional solutions.
Your career at ithinx
ithinx develops modular IoT platforms with a focus on communication, energy efficiency and certifiability. We offer you the opportunity to work on pioneering projects with technical depth and practical relevance. You will see your hardware designs through from concept to series production and develop solutions that make real-world applications smarter.
Conclusion: A profession with a future
Hardware developer IoT is a profession that combines technical skills and creative thinking. Anyone who enjoys electronics, innovation and teamwork will find a fulfilling and future-proof career here. Whether junior level, working student or experienced developer – if you are curious, take a look at our vacancies in hardware development and become part of an exciting field of technology!