Hardware Systems Engineer, Early Stage Project, X

About X, the Moonshot Factory:

X is Alphabet’s moonshot factory with a mission of inventing and launching “moonshot” technologies that could someday make the world a radically better place. We are a diverse group of inventors and entrepreneurs who build and launch technologies that aim to improve the lives of millions, even billions, of people. Our goal: 10x impact on the world’s most intractable problems, not just 10% improvement. We approach projects that have the aspiration and riskiness of research with the speed and ambition of a startup. As an innovation engine, X focuses on repeatedly turning breakthrough-technology ideas into the foundations for large, sustainable businesses.

About the team:

We are a dynamic, early-stage team of creative engineers and scientists focused on developing and prototyping complex, multi-disciplinary hardware systems from concept to reality. We are seeking individuals who thrive in ambiguity and enjoy building groundbreaking technologies in small, fast-paced environments.

About the role:

As a Hardware Systems Engineer, you will play a central role in taking our technology from initial concept to a fully functional prototype. You will be a key contributor in engineering our initial systems, ensuring that all sub-systems—from materials and optics to software and mechanical components—work together. This is a role for a "generalist expert" who can dive into the technical details of several domains while maintaining a broad systems-level perspective.

How you will have 10X impact:

• Drive 0-to-1 development by designing, building, and testing iterations of sub-systems, including developing requirements, engineering components, testing components, and building BOMs.
• Define and manage technical specifications for the entire product, spanning hardware, software, and material sub-systems.
• Navigate fluidly between disciplines—such as hardware design, materials development, and software—to solve the most pressing cross-functional challenges.
• Proactively identify critical gaps and take the initiative to address them in a fast-paced, small-team environment.
• Collaborate with and manage technical relationships with internal and external partners and specialized suppliers to execute co-development projects.

What should you have:

• Proven track record of playing a leading technical role in developing the first version (Prototype, EVT) of a complex, multi-disciplinary hardware product.
• Engineering background in one core area with a demonstrated ability to learn and contribute across multiple domains (e.g., hardware, software, systems, optics).
• Experience working in early-stage startups or small, autonomous teams within larger organizations, where you have proactively managed ambiguity and "done whatever it takes" to build the system.
• Ability to set end-to-end technical specifications for complex products.
• Experience identifying, selecting, and managing specialized external engineering partners, vendors, and/or manufacturers.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field.

It'd be great if you had these:

• PhD in Engineering.
• Experience in the development or synthesis of new inorganic materials, particularly glass
• Experience with laser-material physical interactions, particularly involving ultra-short pulse lasers.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $159,000 - $228,000 + bonus + equity + benefits. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your location during the hiring process.

Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits.