Lead Hardware Engineer

Job Description

About Us We're building the next generation of smart calculators for modern retailers tools that go far beyond basic math. These devices integrate dynamic QR code generation, digital payments, inventory tracking, and more. Think of it as a POS terminal disguised as a calculator — but way smarter.Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to replace over 30 million traditional calculators sitting on shop counters across the world. If you're passionate about creating intuitive, impactful hardware that empowers everyday users — join us in redefining what a calculator can do. Role Overview As Lead Hardware Engineer , you’ll lead the design, prototyping, and mass production of our core product: a smart calculator that integrates embedded systems, custom PCB design, and peripherals like dynamic displays and audio feedback. You'll own the entire hardware lifecycle—from idea to shop counter. Responsibilities 1. Hardware Architecture & Design Leadership Own the architecture, design, and development of embedded hardware for retail and consumer devices. Ensure scalable, efficient, and innovative design practices aligned with business goals. 2. Embedded System & Component Strategy Drive component selection and system integration across displays, keypads, memory, power, and wireless modules (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth). Optimize for low power consumption, compact form factor, and durability in field conditions. 3. Firmware Coordination & Co-Development Collaborate closely with embedded software and firmware teams to ensure seamless hardware-software integration. Oversee design verification and validation processes for system-level functionality. 4. Vendor & Manufacturing Management Manage relationships with external vendors, manufacturers, and prototyping partners. Oversee hardware development from prototyping through to production and testing. 5. Cost Optimization & Mass Production Readiness Implement design-for-manufacturability (DFM), design-for-testability (DFT), and cost-effective strategies for high-volume production. Ensure compliance with industry and regulatory standards. 6. Quality Assurance & Field Support Define hardware quality metrics, testing protocols, and certification standards. Lead root-cause analysis and resolution of hardware issues encountered in production or field deployments. 7. Cross-Functional Product Collaboration Partner with product management, software, and UX teams to align hardware capabilities with user and business requirements. Contribute to roadmap planning and feature prioritization from a hardware perspective. 8. Team Building & Leadership Build, mentor, and lead a high-caliber hardware engineering team. Foster a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement. Background B.Tech/M.Tech in Electronics, Electrical, Embedded Systems, or Mechatronics. 5+ years of experience in embedded product development , IoT hardware , or consumer electronics . Proven experience designing and shipping custom hardware products at scale. Strong grasp of microcontrollers (e.g., STM32, ESP32, RP2040), peripheral interfacing , and embedded programming . Experience in PCB design tools (Altium, KiCAD, Eagle, etc.). Familiar with dynamic QR code generation , audio output integration , and display interfaces . Bonus: Hands-on with 3D CAD for enclosures , thermal/power analysis , and compliance certifications . You're a Great Fit If You: Can bridge hands-on prototyping with strategic leadership. Love building hardware that just works in the hands of real people. Are excited by the impact of solving real-world problems for millions of shopkeepers . Know how to scale from garage-level testing to production-level stability. Why Join Us? Be part of a startup solving real problems in India’s retail ecosystem. Lead the hardware vision of a first-of-its-kind product . Influence product direction from the ground up. Build tech that makes an actual difference in people’s lives. Location: Bangalore (or Hybrid) Experience: 5–10 years Industry: Consumer Electronics / Embedded Systems / IoT Devices Key Criteria – To Apply 10,000+ Units Shipped – You must have designed, manufactured, and successfully delivered hardware at this scale. Real-World Impact – Share tangible examples of products you have built, shipped, and serviced. Compensation: 20-25 LPA + ESOPs (Negotiable) If you're the right fit, we’ll ensure money is never a concern—in the short or long run. This is more than a job; it’s a generational wealth-building opportunity. If you have built and delivered at scale, we would love to see your work. Send an email to, hr@tohands.Role & responsibilities Preferred candidate profile