Hardware Lead at AI-powered physical security & robotics startup

This is a role that TechTree is recruiting for on behalf of one of our clients. TechTree is an AI-driven recruitment platform working with high-growth companies.

When you apply, our AI Agent matches you not just to this role , but to other relevant opportunities across our network, so one application can unlock multiple roles. Hardware Lead — Build the hardware function from zero at an AI-powered security robotics startup (Zurich) A founding team with deep expertise across AI, autonomy, and software — and zero hardware in-house — is hiring a Hardware Lead to change that. You'll define hardware strategy across ground, aerial, and stationary platforms, own the physical robots that run their field foundation models, and grow the hardware team as the company scales. This is a high-leverage role working directly with founders, deeply hands-on for the first year.

What You'll Own → Hardware strategy: build vs. partner vs. integrate across ground robots, drones, and stationary sensors

→ Mechanical design: chassis, mounting, ruggedization for outdoor security deployments

→ Electrical and electromechanical systems: power, compute, actuation, sensing

→ Sensor integration: cameras, LiDAR, IMU, GPS, audio

→ Manufacturing and supply chain: prototype-to-production, vendor management, BOM

→ Field reliability: environmental qualification, MTBF, failure analysis

→ Hiring: build the hardware team from zero

What We're Looking For → 8+ years in robotics, autonomous systems, or adjacent hardware, with a product taken from prototype into the field

→ Deep expertise across mechanical, electrical, and systems integration

→ Hands-on experience through prototype, DVT, PVT, and into production

→ Track record ruggedizing hardware for harsh environments

→ Experience managing manufacturing partners and supply chains

→ Based in or willing to relocate to Zurich, Switzerland (visa and relocation support available)

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