A paradise for those who love electronics

Working in electronics development at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace provides numerous opportunities and learning experiences, as Jan Ottar can attest. Employed by the company for three years, he is passionate about his role. "What struck me most when I started was the sheer number of highly skilled individuals working here. I had certain expectations, but they were greatly surpassed - the expertise among my colleagues is incredible," says Jan Ottar.

His workplace places a strong emphasis on knowledge sharing and the exchange of experiences. This collaborative method enhances the skill sets of all employees. The mix of experienced professionals and new graduates creates a dynamic team, ideal for addressing development projects that require varied perspectives. Jan Ottar frequently stops by the office to discuss matters and seek help when facing challenges.

What does an electronics engineer do?

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace is currently organised into three divisions: Defence Systems, Aerostructures & MRO, and Missiles & Space. Jan Ottar is part of the Missiles & Space division, which is experiencing rapid growth. In addition to managing and further developing the world-leading missile products, Naval Strike Missile (NSM) and Joint Strike Missile (JSM), the division is in the early stages of developing a brand new and groundbreaking missile product. The supersonic missile 3SM has been chosen by both Norway and Germany, and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has been tasked with its development.

"These missile projects are some of the largest and most impressive that Norway will undertake in the future," says John Løvlie, head of the electronics engineers in the missile division, and 100% objective in his statement.

But he is onto something. This is hardcore innovation and development. Nothing less. And here, the competence of the electronics developers will be crucial.

Electronics engineers are pivotal in the development of new technology, overseeing the process from conceptualisation to the final product. They ensure that electronic systems operate efficiently, safely, and reliably.

From A to Z

Interdisciplinarity and collaboration with various fields are crucial for any project. At Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, as an electronics developer, you engage in teamwork across disciplines while working on cutting-edge technology, intricate electronic systems, circuit boards, FPGA, management, and product development—from initial architecture and design to the final delivered product.

The responsibilities encompass a range of activities, including system and architecture development, concept creation, specification, and design work. This also involves tasks like handling circuit diagrams, simulations, and PCB/circuit board layouts. Additionally, the duties cover testing and documentation, along with integrating electronics into systems and products alongside FPGA, software, and mechanics teams. Moreover, it is crucial to monitor and support products during the production phase and to sustain and manage product designs throughout their entire life cycle.

What motivates Jan Ottar the most is the variety of tasks and the chance to be involved in the entire development process. 

"It's incredibly rewarding to work with such exciting and challenging products and to be a part of the entire value chain from start to finish," he says. "I appreciate the diversity, working on everything from system design and architecture to testing, industrialisation, and delivery," he adds.

Alternatively, you can opt to specialise in a particular field—like Power, which Jan Ottar focuses on—and become an expert in that area.

What qualifications must an electronics engineer possess?

What professional and personal skills are necessary for an electronics engineer to efficiently and safely design, develop, test, and implement electronic systems?

Personal: 

An electronics engineer should analyse intricate problems and think critically to find effective solutions. Precision and attention to detail are vital since minor design errors can cause major production issues. Communication skills are also essential; the engineer must articulate complex technical concepts clearly, both in writing and verbally, and collaborate well with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.

With technology advancing quickly, they must have strong learning skills and be eager to continually update their knowledge. Creativity is also crucial for innovative thinking in developing new products and finding alternative solutions to technical challenges.

Professional

Education:

Typically, a bachelor's degree in electronics, electrical engineering, cybernetics, or a related engineering field is the minimum qualification for an electronics or FPGA developer at our company. For specialised roles or research positions, a master's or doctoral degree might be required.

Jan Ottar earned his Master of Science in Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim. He focused on electrical energy conversion and discovered the excitement of electronics development through the “Revolve” student project. This experience also introduced him to KONGSBERG, both as a sponsor and potential employer.

Technical expertise:

• Circuit technology: In-depth knowledge of analogue and digital circuits, along with design and analysis of PCBs.
• Digital, analogue, and power electronics: Capable of working with both digital and analogue systems, as well as managing power electronics to control and direct energy flow within systems.
• Safety-critical electronics: Knowledge of design principles and standards for creating systems where safety is paramount, like medical devices or avionics.
• Embedded design/Computer design: Experience with developing embedded systems that combine hardware and software for specific functions.
• Control and control systems: Expertise in creating automation control systems, including designing servo and motor control systems.
• Sensors and sensor systems: Experience with integrating and using sensors in various systems, as well as developing complete sensor systems for measurement and detection.
• RF, radar, and radio systems: Knowledge of radio frequency (RF) technology and design of radar and radio systems, including wireless communication and signal transmission.
• Ethernet communication and protocols: Experience with network protocols and ethernet-based communication systems for data transmission in complex networks.

Tools and software:

• Skills in CAD programmes such as OrCAD, Altium Designer, or Eagle for circuit board design.
  Use of simulation tools such as SPICE to analyse circuits.
  Knowledge of measurement and test equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and logic analysers.
  Project management:
• Ability to lead projects, including planning, resource allocation, and time management.
• Experience working in interdisciplinary teams and coordinating between different disciplines.

Quality assurance:

• Understanding of quality standards and procedures, including CE marking and ISO standards.