Hardware Director

Hardware Director

Location

Department

Reports To

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end hardware architecture and product design for drone systems including flight controllers, propulsion systems, sensors, and payload integration

• Oversee PCB design, power distribution systems, and RF modules tailored for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)

• Integrate multi-sensor systems including acoustic, RF, and vision sensing components to support mission-critical applications

• Architect and implement RF-resilient networks and robust communication systems optimized for ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) and environmental deployments

• Lead development of advanced sensor fusion algorithms and edge computing capabilities for aerial platforms

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including software, mechanical, and systems engineering to deliver integrated solutions

• Ensure compliance with aviation and industry standards (e.g. DO-254, MIL-STD, FCC, CE)

• Own vendor selection, hardware prototyping, and testing cycles

• Drive innovation in areas such as AI-powered flight systems, battery optimization, and scalable platform design

• Mentor and lead a team of electrical and hardware engineers

• Leverage open-source design tools (e.g. FreeCAD, Fusion 360) to accelerate prototyping and cross-team collaboration

• Develop scalable hardware platforms that can serve multiple drone product lines

Required Skills & Experience

• 8+ years in hardware engineering with at least 5 years in UAV or aerospace hardware design

• Extensive experience with embedded systems, microcontrollers, and sensor integration

• Demonstrated expertise in multi-sensor fusion involving acoustic, RF, and visual sensing modalities

• Proven proficiency in building RF-resilient communication architectures for remote or mission-critical applications

• Hands-on experience with both commercial and open-source CAD tools (e.g. Altium Designer, OrCAD, FreeCAD, Fusion 360) and simulation software

• Deep understanding of RF communication, GPS, and drone telemetry systems

• Experience deploying edge computing solutions in aerial or environmental systems

• Proven track record of bringing drone products from concept to launch

• Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills

Nice to Have

• Experience with autonomous drone platforms and swarming technologies
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes for lightweight drone components
• Exposure to regulatory environments across global aviation bodies