Head of Hardware Systems

A fast-growing Cambridge technology company developing IoT products for global markets is looking for a hands-on Head of Hardware/Electronic Systems to lead its electronics function at a key stage of growth. The company has already deployed tens of thousands of devices in the field, and with strong commercial traction and plans to scale further they are now looking for an experienced engineering leader to take ownership of their embedded hardware development. The Role Reporting to the CTO, you will lead the embedded systems function while managing a small team of engineers and remaining involved in the technical work. This role is a true combination of leadership with hands-on engineering, across the full hardware development lifecycle. Key Responsibilities Hardware Development - ownership of the hardware development lifecycle, oversee PCB design, prototyping, and testing, manage EMC and regulatory approvals, support manufacturing and production testing Engineering Process - establish design review and change processes. maintainance of documentation and quality standards, improve engineering practices where needed Team Leadership - manage and mentor a small engineering team (growth to around 5 engineers), run regular 1:1s and performance reviews, support hiring as the team grows Collaboration - work across mutlidisciplinary teams and contribute to product and technical decisions Travel - some international travel to manufacturing partners required We’re looking for someone with a strong background in electronics or embedded hardware development. You should have experience supporting electronics manufacturing at scale (1,000+ units) and have previously managed or led a small hardware or embedded team. Experience working in fast-paced or startup environments would be valuable, alongside a solid understanding of engineering processes such as design reviews and change management. You should also be confident using common debugging tools including oscilloscopes and multimeters. Any experience with RF, low power electronics, and development of outdoor hardware would be beneficial, but not essential. This is a business built on collaboration and teamwork. You will need to be somebody who truly values this type of environment - thriving off autonomy and an accepting, blameless culture.