Hardware Engineering Manager

We’re hiring a Senior Hardware Engineering Manager in North Reading, MA to lead our client’s complex, high‑visibility hardware programs as a technical engineering manager and program owner. This role is designed for an experienced Engineering Manager who combines people leadership, technical depth, and end‑to‑end execution accountability. The position owns hardware program delivery from concept through production, while managing and influencing cross‑functional engineering teams across hardware, software, FPGA, and new product introduction (NPI).This is a hands‑on Engineering Manager (player‑coach) role requiring direct involvement in technical decision‑making, design reviews, execution planning, and issue resolution. The successful candidate will be accountable for team performance, execution quality, schedules, budgets, and delivery outcomes, while building confidence with senior leadership and stakeholdersKey ResponsibilitiesEngineering Management and Program OwnershipServe as the Engineering Manager responsible for full end‑to‑end hardware program executionOwn delivery from concept and planning through development, manufacturing, and releaseEnsure alignment across resources, schedules, budgets, technical direction, and execution qualityCross‑Functional Engineering LeadershipLead and influence cross‑functional teams across hardware engineering, software engineering, FPGA, mechanical, and logic designOperate effectively in a matrixed engineering environment, driving results without direct authorityProvide technical leadership and decision‑making support across all phases of product developmentTechnical Leadership and Player‑Coach ExpectationsParticipate in design reviews and technical discussions as a hands‑on Engineering ManagerChallenge assumptions, validate technical approaches, and diagnose complex system issuesMaintain a strong technical foundation to guide teams, escalate risks, and resolve execution challengesProgram Execution and DeliveryPartner with a Project Manager (PMP) in a two‑in‑the‑box execution modelValidate schedules, challenge plans, and ensure execution accountabilityManage multiple concurrent programs with high complexity and visibilityPeople and Organizational LeadershipDirectly manage approximately 5 engineers, with responsibility for performance, development, and engagementInfluence larger, indirect engineering organizations supporting programs of 50+ contributors and budgets up to $30MMentor engineering staff and build a culture of accountability, collaboration, and execution excellenceCommunication and Stakeholder ManagementPresent program status, risks, and execution plans to senior leadership and executive stakeholdersCommunicate clearly across engineering, product, operations, and customer‑facing teamsBuild trust and confidence that programs are being actively driven and managedRequired QualificationsBSEE required10+ years of experience in hardware engineering and system design, with a focus on PCB‑based products5+ years of experience as an Engineering Manager, Hardware Engineering Manager, or Technical Engineering LeaderProven success delivering complex hardware products from concept through manufacturingExperience leading cross‑functional engineering teams and multiple concurrent programsExperience managing or influencing vendors and contractorsEngineering Manager Skills and CompetenciesStrong engineering management and people leadership capabilitiesAbility to set direction, prioritize work, and drive executionComfort operating in matrixed organizations and influencing without authorityExcellent communication skills, including executive‑level presentationsBalance of technical depth and leadership mindsetApply NowThis role is ideal for a Senior Hardware Engineering Manager seeking a high‑ownership position with strong technical engagement, people leadership, and program accountability. Local candidates in North Reading, MA with experience leading hardware engineering teams and complex product development efforts, are encouraged to apply for confidential consideration.