Cenith Innovations · 23 hours ago
Hardware Systems Engineer (Devices)
Cenith Innovations is a mission-driven defense technology company specializing in agentic AI solutions for military applications. The Hardware Systems Engineer will own hardware subsystems for autonomous platforms, driving requirements, design, integration, and testing of hardware that supports the deployment of AI technologies in real-world environments.
AerospaceArtificial Intelligence (AI)Machine LearningSoftware
Responsibilities
Own hardware subsystems end-to-end across autonomous platforms
Drive requirements, design, build, integration, test, iteration, and documentation
Build and integrate electro-mechanical assemblies that go onto drones and robots, such as mounts, sensors, gimbals, serviceable packaging, and more
Support electrical engineering and integration common on UxV systems
Prototype quickly using practical tools and methods, then evolve prototypes into repeatable builds
Run structured verification and field testing for autonomous platforms, including ruggedization work like vibration tolerance, thermal behavior, sealing/ingress considerations, and real-world handling
Integrate and validate payloads and sensors used on drones and robots
Partner with autonomy and software teams to ensure hardware is testable, debuggable, and reliable in real missions and field environments
Troubleshoot cross-domain issues quickly (mechanical, electrical, comms, integration), drive root cause, implement corrective actions, and retest
Support component selection and build planning with an eye toward reliability, manufacturability, and field maintainability
Qualification
Required
3+ years experience with a proven ability to ship hardware that's been tested, iterated on and works
Comfortable spanning disciplines (mechanical + electrical)
You are able to learn new areas quickly and are a generalist across technologies
Hands-on integration skills with an emphasis on basic CAD familiarity, harnessing/connector work, bench tools (DMM, power supplies), and mechanical assembly
An ownership mindset where you proactively identify gaps, propose a plan, and execute with minimal supervision
Clear communicator who can document work and coordinate across hardware, software, and field-test stakeholders
Able to work primarily from Bend, OR with an onsite-first posture
Must be a United States Person eligible for a U.S. security clearance
Willingness to travel for field testing, integration events, customer engagement, and on-site engineering collaboration
Valid driver's license and a reliable personal vehicle required for access to regional test sites and field locations that do not have public transportation
Preferred
Communications and networking integration for autonomous systems including radios, antennas, IP based and mesh
EO/IR/thermal payload integration
Aeronautical experience with a flight-worthiness mindset
Environmental design/testing experience, including thermal cycling, vibration, MIL standard, and more
Familiarity with autonomous platform integration patterns across UAS, UGV, and USV systems
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision coverage
401(k) plan
Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
Company
Cenith Innovations
Cenith Innovations specializes in AI, machine learning, and product management services for the defense and commercial sectors.