Job Details

Base pay range

$175,000.00/yr - $225,000.00/yr

About Us

Kägwerks designs and develops rugged, tactical operator-worn communications technologies that enable unmatched connectivity and integrated secure networking for the individual war fighter. We strive to increase the survivability and lethality of the war fighter on the battlefield. We do so by providing unmatched integrated tactical communications solutions that help further our national security objectives.

What will you be doing?

Working in close collaboration with the Vice President of Engineering and engaging with both internal stakeholders and external partners, the Director of Hardware Engineering will own and oversee the full lifecycle of hardware product development—from concept through new product introduction and into sustainment. This role will lead a high-performing, cross-disciplinary team comprising Electrical, Mechanical, RF, and Test Engineers. The successful candidate will be responsible for defining technical direction, driving engineering execution, and ensuring hardware development aligns with program goals, budget, and timelines. This includes guiding internal design reviews, developing rigorous validation strategies, supporting compliance testing, and collaborating with Operations to ensure successful product launches. The position also plays a key role in shaping the engineering culture at Kägwerks—mentoring talent, promoting innovation, and ensuring the delivery of reliable, mission‑critical solutions that meet the demands of war fighters and first responders.

Key Responsibilities

• Directing cross‑functional engineering efforts to develop ruggedized electronics for defence and tactical communications
• Leading system architecture, hardware validation, and product testing activities across multiple product lines
• Collaborating with internal teams and external customers to define requirements and provide ongoing technical support
• Managing project resources, budgets, timelines, and risk mitigation across hardware programs
• Overseeing the New Product Introduction (NPI) process and coordinating with Operations to transition products into full production
• Establishing and maintaining engineering quality practices, including support for ISO certification
• Participating in customer engagements and external technical forums to reinforce Kägwerks' reputation as an industry leader
• Mentoring and developing engineering staff to ensure ongoing growth and capability within the team
• Maintaining accountability for the performance, reliability, and compliance of delivered hardware products

Benefits And Culture

Our culture is supportive and collaborative. You will be part of a multidisciplinary team where we share our ideas and innovation is strongly encouraged. We are looking for someone with genuine passion and a can‑do attitude. Our staff receive 15 days accrued paid time off per year, 10 Federal holidays, an opportunity to join our sponsored health plan, a generous 401k plan with immediate vesting and a matching employer contribution, an Employee Assistance Program, and more. Additionally, we offer flexible core working hours and a personal approach to training and development. You can expect to enjoy working as part of a global organisation with teams in the USA, UK, Denmark, Singapore, and Australia.

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Engineering and Information Technology

Location

Vancouver, WA