Who we are

Picogrid envisions a future where every system, from the smallest sensors to next-generation fighter jets, can collaborate autonomously to create a safer and more prosperous world for all.

Today, we are at the forefront of American defense technology, developing a unified platform that integrates fragmented technologies—such as sensors, cameras, radar, and drones—into sophisticated mission systems.

Our technology is deployed globally, supporting customers including the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, CAL FIRE, PG&E, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, and many others.

About this role

Picogrid is looking for a Electrical Hardware Development Engineer who is passionate about advancing the state of the art in defense. As a foundational member of Picogrid's engineering team, you will work closely with our founders to define our core technology stack, engineering culture, and product roadmap.

Responsibilities

• Rapidly design, develop, and test high-reliability electronics for Picogrid’s growing family of hardware platforms deployed across the globe
• Drive end-to-end electrical systems development including requirements capture, component selection, analysis, schematic capture, prototyping, bring-up, test, debugging, documentation, and manufacturing
• Develop and maintain documentation for electrical designs, specifications, and test plans
• Provide technical leadership to help mentor junior engineers, refine requirements, processes, and product roadmap across the company
• Challenge all assumptions, requirements, and processes

Basic Qualifications

• 4+ years of professional experience designing and delivering electrical hardware
• Ability to work in an autonomously driven, fast-paced, and demanding startup atmosphere
• Experience designing, developing, and testing analog and digital circuits (e.g. generating electrical schematics, analyzing circuits, breadboarding prototypes, designing circuit boards, etc.)

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or similar engineering degree
• Experience with full life cycle development of new hardware products, not small incremental updates to legacy hardware
• Experience with sensors, embedded microcontroller design, firmware, and software development
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Active US security clearance, or eligibility to obtain one. An active security clearance may allow you to work on certain sensitive Picogrid missions.

Some types of experience we're especially excited to see

• 3+ years of professional experience designing and delivering production-ready electrical systems
• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechatronics, computer engineering, or another engineering discipline
• You have a multidisciplinary background with an ability to work closely with software, firmware, mechanical, PCB layout, integration test, manufacturing, and deployment teams
• Active clearance or eligible to obtain clearance
• Experience (or interest in) building climate tech, defense tech, or related fields

Benefits

• Base salary range: $110,000 - $180,000 per year. Base salary is just one part of your total compensation package at Picogrid.
• Significant stock options with a high potential upside as an early-stage company
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Full health coverage (medical, dental, and vision insurance)
• Relocation assistance provided
• Unlimited PTO (two-week minimum) and 11 paid holidays per year
• Paid parental leave for both parents
• Lunch provided when working in-office and fully stocked kitchenette
• Remote/hybrid-friendly work environment
• Unique office in downtown El Segundo, CA stocked with quality coffee, snacks, and craft beer

Interview Process

• You apply
• 20-minute intro call
• 60-minute technical screen
• Short take-home project
• Half-day onsite interviews
• We make you an offer 🎉

Export Control Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.