HHiring Reality
← Roadrunner Studios

Head of Hardware Engineering - Onsite in San Francisco, CA

Roadrunner Studios
Location
San Francisco, CA
Posted
20 days ago
Department
Portfolio Company: Stealth
What they actually want (must-haves)
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, systems engineering, or a related field
  • Experience leading complex hardware from concept through prototype builds, operational qualification, and production planning
  • Ability to move quickly, take broad ownership, and solve complex problems with limited resources in a startup environment
  • Experience managing engineering firms, fabrication shops, suppliers, contract manufacturers, or engineering, procurement, and construction partners
  • At least three years of experience leading hardware development and developing engineering talent
Nice to have
  • High proficiency with computer aided design software such as SolidWorks or NX and product lifecycle management systems
  • Experience with engineering release processes, configuration control, drawings, bills of materials, and supplier documentation
  • Experience with design for manufacturing and assembly for industrial, aerospace, automotive, robotics, energy, or other complex hardware
  • Experience with combustion hardware, thermal systems, fluid systems, gas handling, pressure systems, large field equipment, or power systems
  • Experience with test instrumentation, data acquisition, controls interfaces, inspection methods, qualification plans, and operational readiness reviews
What the job really is

The Head of Hardware Engineering will lead the development and deployment of rainfall enhancement technology, overseeing the entire process from system architecture and prototyping to production-scale manufacturing. This hands-on role involves collaboration with internal teams and external partners, focusing on mechanical, thermal, combustion, and fluid systems. The position requires significant time commitment, including long hours and frequent travel, in a fast-paced startup environment.

Benefits
  • This role includes significant equity.
Things to weigh
  • Expect weeks of 50 to 60 hours, sometimes more, with frequent travel and regular weekend work.
  • Priorities will change quickly; this role may not suit those who prefer a stable work environment.
Job score2.8/5
Benefits1/5
Freshness4/5
Career value4/5
Role clarity5/5
Pay transparency0/5

Applying to Roadrunner Studios?

See how your résumé matches this role — and tailor it from what actually gets interviews.