Our client is revolutionizing autonomous driving with a unique approach rooted in cognitive neuroscience and cutting-edge German research. Their mission is to make intelligent, explainable decisions in complex traffic environments without relying on massive datasets. As one of the first companies in Germany to pursue level 4 certification for autonomous vehicles, they're focused on safety, transparency, and scalability to shape the future of mobility—connecting people wherever they are.

As Head of Hardware, you will lead the development of the high-performance, safety critical systems that power their autonomous technology.

Responsibilities:
• Lead the design, development, and integration of embedded systems, PCBs, and specialized hardware (e.g., FPGAs, ASICs, SoCs) for autonomous vehicles.
• Manage full hardware lifecycle including prototyping, testing (lab/field), quality assurance, and certification to automotive standards.
• Develop and maintain sensor fusion hardware systems, integrating LiDAR, radar, cameras, GPS, and ultrasound into real-time perception pipelines.
• Define and implement power management, signal processing, and thermal management strategies for reliable, efficient operation in-vehicle environments.
• Oversee hardware-software integration across autonomy stacks, including ECUs, ADAS components, and V2X communication systems.
• Guide a multidisciplinary hardware team using agile methodologies (Scrum, Kanban), ensuring timely delivery of hardware projects.
• Collaborate with software, perception, and safety teams as well as suppliers and regulatory bodies to align on project goals, timelines, and compliance.

Requirements:
• Proven experience in automotive hardware development, including embedded systems (ARM, RISC-V), PCB design, and signal processing.
• Strong knowledge of functional safety standards (ISO 26262), AEC-Q100, and design for reliability (DFR).
• Familiarity with high-performance computing components (GPUs, TPUs, ASICs) and sensor hardware integration (LiDAR, radar, camera).
• Experience with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Altium), PCB software (e.g., KiCad, Eagle), and simulation platforms (MATLAB/Simulink, PSpice).
• Proficiency in communication protocols like CAN, Automotive Ethernet, and MOST.
• Skilled in fault diagnosis, EMC/EMI testing, and reliability engineering for safetycritical environments.
• Background in hardware prototyping, validation, and cross-functional project leadership.
• Experience with cybersecurity and compliance standards for automotive electronics is a plus (negotiable).

Why You Should Join Us:
• Work in an intellectually stimulating and innovative environment where you can take full ownership of your projects.
• Enjoy flat hierarchies, an open culture, and fast decision-making processes.
• Collaborate with a skilled and dedicated team eager to share their knowledge and expertise.
• Be part of a multinational workplace that values diversity and integrates different backgrounds and perspectives.
• Work in the vibrant heart of Berlin, in the dynamic Kreuzberg district