What are the responsibilities and job description for the Founding Engineer - Senior Hardware Engineer position at Stealth Mode Startup?
About The Role:
We’re seeking a full-stack hardware engineer who thrives in handling everything from concept (electronics, mechanicals) through PCB design, and firmware (embedded code). You’ll be responsible for working with other hardware engineers on the entire hardware lifecycle—from component selection and schematic design to writing the low-level firmware that brings the silicon to life. The ideal candidate has deep experience with designing high-density flex-rigid PCBs for space-constrained form factors.
We want a self starter who can take ownership of their area and will be expected to work autonomously with no micromanagement or hand holding. You’ll also partner with manufacturing ensuring what you’ve designed is what’s produced. This may include international travel as well.
Requirements & Responsibilities:
- Design and implement robust firmware using Zephyr RTOS on Nordic nRF5340 dual-core architectures.
- Write and optimize peripheral drivers (SPI, I2C, UART) for PMICs, PPG heart-rate sensors, and 6-axis accelerometers.
- Own the full PCB process using KiCad (or similar), focusing on 4-layer (or higher) flex-rigid designs that fit within ultra-compact enclosures (e.g., smart rings).
- Develop and fine-tune custom BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) services and profiles to ensure low-latency (<40ms), high-reliability data streaming to mobile clients.
- Conduct system-wide power profiling to maximize battery life, implementing sleep modes and efficient sensor sampling strategies.
- Collaborate on the initial system-level planning, defining hardware requirements, and selecting low-power components to build platforms from the ground up.
- Solid software development skills in C and C .
- Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or Computer Science, or a related field.
- Successful candidates must be able to provide proof of legal authorization to work in the United States.
About The Company:
We are a seed stage healthcare startup founded by Ex-Google & Apple employees with a ton of industry experience. We are in stealth mode, and feel our product will be a major disruptor that puts a dent in the universe. We have a track record of success and are on a mission to win and save lives along the way!
Location:
We have moved to, and are located in, Champaign Illinois.