About the role
About Shift5 Shift5 is building the data platform for onboard operational technology (OT). We deliver cybersecurity, predictive maintenance, and compliance capabilities that enable defense and commercial fleets to operate with greater readiness, resilience, and mission assurance. We are seeking a mission-aligned Hardware (Electrical) Engineer to drive the design and development of cutting-edge hardware for our Intake product team. This role sits at the intersection of Electrical Design , Hardware Lifecycle Management , and Aerospace/Defense Compliance and will play a critical role in supporting Shift5’s next phase of growth. This is not a theoretical R&D role. It requires technical fluency in PCB design, ownership of the full hardware development lifecycle, and the Relentless Innovation needed to solve the toughest problems facing the transportation and defense industries. What You’ll Do Lead and execute the full hardware development lifecycle, from component selection and schematic capture to PCB design and layout. Own the design and rigorous testing of electrical boards to demanding military and aerospace standards (MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461, etc.). Partner closely with interdisciplinary teams to create compact, cost-effective, and high-performance assemblies. Drive measurable impact in hardware reliability by building and testing prototypes that meet strict safety and performance specifications. Identify and act on opportunities to improve existing systems through deep analysis and iterative design enhancements. Navigate the complexities of an AS9100/ISO9001 certified environment and ensure adherence to IPC standards. Contribute directly to the modernization of defense and commercial fleets by delivering resilient hardware for mission-critical OT data. What We’re Looking For Experience in schematic design of circuit boards to military standards (3+ years; 7+ years for Senior). Demonstrated ability to utilize test equipment like oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers for hardware verification. Strong technical skills in Electrical CAD software (Altium preferred) and FPGA board design. Comfort operating in fast-paced, regulated environments involving MIL-STD-810, 461, 704, 1275, and DO-160. Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field. Preferred
qualifications include experience in an AS9100 certified environment and familiarity with IPC standards.
Compensation &
Benefits Base Salary: $130,000–$180,000
Bonus program and equity in a fast-growing startup Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage Health Savings Account with annual employer contributions Life and Disability Insurance Uncapped paid time off policy Flexible work & remote work policy Tax-deferred public transit
benefits with Metro SmartBenefits (DC/MD/VA) Equal Opportunity Employer Shift5 is committed to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics. Privacy Policy and Notice for Shift5, Inc. Job Applicants, Employees & Contractors
About Shift5
Shift5 provides onboard OT data and cybersecurity solutions for defense and transportation, safeguarding critical assets against threats and ensuring operational readiness.
Other roles at Shift5
Job details
Salary
$130,000 - $180,000
Location
Arlington, VA
Funding
Total raised
$180M
Last stage
Series C
Investors
Founders
James Correnti
Co-Founder & Chief Architect
Michael Weigand
Co-Founder & Chief Growth Officer
What happens next.
No applications, no recruiter spam. Just the intro.
Confirm the fit
A few questions to make sure this role is the right shape for you. Two minutes.
I pitch you to the company
I write the intro, send it to the founder, and handle the back-and-forth.
A meeting lands on your calendar
If they’re a yes, I book the chat. You show up — that’s the whole job-hunt.
