Here's how you can identify crucial qualities when hiring new team members in electronic engineering.

A strong foundation in electronic principles is essential, complemented by hands-on experience with industry-standard design tools. Proficient electronic engineers should demonstrate expertise in circuit analysis, signal processing, system design, and troubleshooting. They should also be familiar with PCB design software (e.g., Altium, Eagle) and simulation programs (e.g., SPICE, Simulink). Key indicators of expertise include proficiency in programming languages (e.g., C++, Python, VHDL), experience with microcontrollers, FPGA, and embedded systems, knowledge of communication protocols, and familiarity with safety standards.

Assessing an engineer's problem-solving skills in real-time can be a powerful way to evaluate their capabilities. By presenting candidates with practical challenges or troubleshooting scenarios during the interview process, you not only gauge their technical knowledge but also their ability to think critically under pressure. This approach reveals how they break down complex problems, prioritize solutions, and apply their skills in a dynamic environment—key traits for excelling in engineering roles.

It's easy to make up a simple board layout with multiple issues, from bypass cap problems, to high speed signal problems, and use it as a test for candidates. Ask the candidate to draw the circuit model of and inductor or capacitor and explain the significance of each part, with bonus points if they can give real world examples of the impact of series resistance or parasitics. Ask them to explain the significance of rise and fall times on PCB design and terminations. The general principle is to present questions or problems where understanding fundamentals are critical. Even if they can't get to a valid solution, you can see their thought process, and that will tell you a lot about them.

Identifying crucial qualities when hiring new team members in electronic engineering starts with assessing problem-solving skills. Look for candidates who demonstrate strong analytical abilities and a systematic approach to tackling complex issues. During interviews, pose hypothetical scenarios or technical challenges to evaluate their thought processes and how they arrive at solutions. Additionally, consider their experience with troubleshooting and their ability to think creatively under pressure. Effective communication skills are also essential, as they will need to collaborate with team members and explain technical concepts clearly.

A way to test this is to have some on the interview panel who has a strong accent and preferably speaks very quickly. Have that person try to be difficult on purpose. Give the candidate a communication challenge in the interview so you can see how they respond.