What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Program Engineer (CPE) position at Knightscope?
About Knightscope
Knightscope designs and operates Autonomous Security Robots (ASRs) that safeguard people and property around the clock. Our fleet of ASRs combines robotics, edge AI, and cloud services to deliver actionable, real‑time intelligence to clients nation‑wide.
Knightscope is seeking a highly driven, hands-on, and technically proficient Chief Program Engineer to lead the K1 Super Tower (K1ST) program. This key role will oversee the integration of mechanical, electrical, software, cybersecurity, communications, and sensor systems to bring the K1ST platform to market at scale. You will serve as the engineering focal point for the program, working cross-functionally with design, engineering, cybersecurity, manufacturing, marketing, sales, service, and executive leadership. Given the importance of the program, you will report directly to the CEO.
You must possess strong leadership capabilities, a roll-up-your-sleeves mentality, and technical depth across complex systems — including new product development processes, re-balancing of targets, gates, and milestones. This is a rare opportunity to build something groundbreaking and meaningful with a mission-driven team in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Serve as the single point of accountability for all technical aspects of the K1 Super Tower (K1ST) program.
- Lead cross-disciplinary engineering efforts (mechanical, electrical, cybersecurity, communications, sensor integration, embedded systems) to deliver program milestones.
- Manage program schedules, technical risks, design reviews, and technical program documentation.
- Work closely with supply chain and manufacturing teams to ensure cost, quality, reliability, cybersecurity, and scalability targets are met.
- Support prototype builds, test validation, field trials, regulatory approvals, and production ramp-up.
- Interface with executive leadership for program status updates, major decision reviews, and risk mitigation.
- Maintain a hands-on approach to problem-solving, from root cause analysis to complex system integration troubleshooting.
- Drive continuous innovation to improve K1ST platform capabilities, manufacturability, and field performance.
- Mentor and develop junior engineering talent as the program and company scale.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering required; Master’s degree preferred.
- 15 years of experience leading complex product development programs across security technology, IoT platforms, robotics, smart infrastructure, or large-scale systems.
- Deep understanding of system architecture (mechanical structures, electrical systems, communications, remote management, cybersecurity).
- Hands-on experience building and validating complex integrated platforms from prototype through production.
- Familiarity with cybersecurity requirements for IoT and smart infrastructure systems is a strong plus.
- Exceptional organizational and leadership skills, with proven ability to manage multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and decision-making under pressure.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, start-up-like environment with minimal supervision.
- U.S. citizenship is required for this position.
COMPENSATION
- Competitive salary
- Stock option grant
- Performance bonus
- Health, dental, vision insurance
- Paid time off, holidays, and more
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex or national origin.