Director, Hardware Engineering

About the role

Carbon is seeking a Director of Hardware Engineering to oversee our hardware division and report to the CTO. This position requires a leader who can define technical roadmaps, scale our engineering team, and ensure our products meet strict standards for cost, quality, and delivery timelines.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Build and manage a high-performing hardware organization by setting clear performance expectations.
• Mentor staff through 1:1 meetings, individual growth planning, and succession development.
• Foster a culture of transparency and risk-taking while removing technical and organizational bottlenecks.
• Define the hardware technical strategy and align it with top-level product priorities.
• Manage hardware projects from initial concept to final production, balancing speed, budget, and quality.
• Optimize engineering operations to increase the velocity and performance of product releases.
• Collaborate with product leadership to establish vision and cross-functional workflows.
• Participate in the engineering leadership team to shape broader company strategy and organizational growth.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in mechanical or hardware engineering.
• 4+ years of experience in a people management role leading engineering teams.
• Proven history of bringing complex hardware products from concept to production.
• Technical expertise in systems, electrical, or mechanical engineering disciplines.
• Demonstrated ability to build teams through organizational design and coaching.
• Strong communication skills to influence stakeholders across all levels of the company.
• Ability to translate business objectives into actionable technical plans.
• Experience implementing process improvements to boost engineering quality and speed.

Nice to have

• Background in robotics, deep-tech, defense, advanced manufacturing, or consumer hardware.
• Knowledge of ITAR compliance and regulations.
• Experience with New Product Introduction (NPI) processes and scaling hardware.
• Experience working in fast-moving, product-led environments.
• Familiarity with modern engineering tooling and design methodologies.

Practical notes

• Salary range: $277,600 to $416,400 per year.
• Target hiring midpoint: $347,000.
• This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
• Compensation is subject to geographical adjustment based on work location.
• Total rewards include equity, benefits, and time-off programs.