Hardware (Electrical) Engineer

About Shift5

Shift5 is building the data platform for onboard operational technology (OT). We deliver cybersecurity, predictive maintenance, and compliance capabilities that enable defense and commercial fleets to operate with greater readiness, resilience, and mission assurance.

We are seeking a mission-aligned Hardware (Electrical) Engineer to drive the design and development of cutting-edge hardware for our Intake product team.

This role sits at the intersection of Electrical Design, Hardware Lifecycle Management, and Aerospace/Defense Compliance and will play a critical role in supporting Shift5’s next phase of growth.

This is not a theoretical R&D role. It requires technical fluency in PCB design, ownership of the full hardware development lifecycle, and the Relentless Innovation needed to solve the toughest problems facing the transportation and defense industries.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and execute the full hardware development lifecycle, from component selection and schematic capture to PCB design and layout.

• Own the design and rigorous testing of electrical boards to demanding military and aerospace standards (MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461, etc.).

• Partner closely with interdisciplinary teams to create compact, cost-effective, and high-performance assemblies.

• Drive measurable impact in hardware reliability by building and testing prototypes that meet strict safety and performance specifications.

• Identify and act on opportunities to improve existing systems through deep analysis and iterative design enhancements.

• Navigate the complexities of an AS9100/ISO9001 certified environment and ensure adherence to IPC standards.

• Contribute directly to the modernization of defense and commercial fleets by delivering resilient hardware for mission-critical OT data.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in schematic design of circuit boards to military standards (3 years; 7 years for Senior).

• Demonstrated ability to utilize test equipment like oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers for hardware verification.

• Strong technical skills in Electrical CAD software (Altium preferred) and FPGA board design.

• Comfort operating in fast-paced, regulated environments involving MIL-STD-810, 461, 704, 1275, and DO-160.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.

• Preferred qualifications include experience in an AS9100 certified environment and familiarity with IPC standards.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $130,000–$180,000

• Bonus program and equity in a fast-growing startup

• Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage

• Health Savings Account with annual employer contributions

• Life and Disability Insurance

• Uncapped paid time off policy

• Flexible work & remote work policy

• Tax-deferred public transit benefits with Metro SmartBenefits (DC/MD/VA)

Equal Opportunity Employer

Shift5 is committed to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.

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