Lead Hardware Engineer

This is a high-ownership hardware leadership role at a defense tech company developing a chip-based LiDAR seeker system for counter-UAS interceptors. You will be the first architect of a physical seeker product translating photonics simulations into a ruggedized flight-qualified system from scratch. The work is foundational: no CAD exists yet and you will define the entire hardware stack.

• Define the full hardware architecture for the LiDAR seeker system including mechanical packaging lens mounting PCB placement and seeker diameter.
• Deliver a physical prototype and CAD model within the first 60 to 90 days to demonstrate form factor and system capabilities to partners.
• Own the certification and qualification process for mounting the seeker on partner missile platforms including all associated compliance documentation.
• Serve as the integration layer between photonics and electrical teams packaging optical and power architectures into a high-G ruggedized system ready for flight.
• Hire and lead a small hardware team including a hands-on mechanical engineer and set the technical bar for the growing group.

• 8 or more years of experience in hardware engineering with a focus on electro-optical or active sensing systems.
• Demonstrated experience designing or integrating a seeker or payload on a missile program at a prime defense contractor or national laboratory.
• Strong background in optomechanical design: lens mounting seeker packaging and PCB placement within constrained form factors.
• Hands-on experience with missile qualification certifications and ruggedization for high-G environments.
• Proficiency with CAD tools such as SolidWorks and experience in systems engineering for EO or LiDAR platforms.
• Familiarity with environmental testing standards including MIL-STD-810 (shock vibration thermal).
• Experience leading or hiring a small hardware engineering team.
• Degree in mechanical engineering electrical engineering optical engineering or physics.
• U.S. Person status required (ITAR); ability to obtain a security clearance.

Base salary: $180000 to $240000 USD annually. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

On-site five days per week in Hawthorne California.