Robotics and Hardware Product Developer

# Founding Robotics & Hardware Product Developer ## About the Role We are looking for an exceptional robotics and hardware product developer to help design and build a portfolio of innovative consumer and commercial hardware products. This is not a role focused on a single product. Instead, you'll work directly with the founder to take ideas from concept through research, engineering, prototyping and manufacturing. Projects may include robotics, automation systems, sports technology, AI-enabled hardware, consumer electronics and other innovative products. Depending on experience, this may begin as a freelance or contract role and develop into a long-term leadership position. ## Responsibilities * Evaluate new hardware product ideas and assess technical feasibility. * Translate concepts into engineering specifications. * Develop product architecture and system designs. * Design mechanical systems, electromechanical assemblies and prototypes. * Select motors, batteries, sensors, controllers and embedded hardware. * Produce CAD models and prototype designs. * Build and test proof-of-concept prototypes. * Identify manufacturing methods and suitable suppliers. * Reduce manufacturing costs while maintaining quality. * Document designs, BOMs and technical specifications. * Work with industrial designers, software engineers and manufacturers where required. * Advise on technical risks, timelines and product strategy. ## Example Projects * Autonomous tennis ball collection robot. * Smart sports training equipment. * Consumer robotics products. * AI-powered hardware devices. * Automation systems. * Future robotics and hardware ventures across multiple industries. ## Ideal Background We're looking for someone with broad product development experience rather than someone who only specialises in one discipline. Ideal experience includes: * Mechatronics Engineering. * Robotics Engineering. * Mechanical Engineering with robotics experience. * Consumer hardware development. * Embedded systems. * Rapid prototyping. * CAD (SolidWorks, Fusion 360 or similar). * Electronics integration. * Manufacturing and Design for Manufacturing (DFM). * Prototype fabrication. Experience taking products from concept to production is highly desirable. ## Nice to Have * Computer vision. * ROS or autonomous robotics. * 3D printing. * CNC machining. * Injection moulding. * Supplier sourcing in China. * Kickstarter or consumer hardware launches. * AI-assisted engineering workflows. ## What Success Looks Like The successful candidate will: * Turn ideas into technically sound product concepts. * Build functional prototypes quickly. * Minimise development cost and time. * Design products that can be manufactured at scale. * Help create an internal capability for robotics and hardware innovation. ## Engagement Open to: * Freelance * Contract * Fractional * Full-time (for exceptional candidates) Remote is acceptable if communication is strong and prototype development can be coordinated effectively. We're looking for someone who enjoys solving difficult engineering problems and wants to help build multiple innovative hardware products over the coming years—not just complete a single project. .