> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3931082-hardware-integration-lead](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3931082-hardware-integration-lead). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Hardware Integration Lead - **Company:** Forterra - **Location:** Clarksburg, MD, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $145,000.0 - $165,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, Network Interface Controllers, Hardware Design, Verification and Validation (Software), Systems Integration, Hardware Testing, Reliability of Systems, SC Clearance - **Published:** October 26, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.jofdav.com/jobs/60246935-hardware-integration-lead ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical field required. Relevant disciplines include: Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Software, Mechatronics, Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, or similar * Minimum 3+ years of experience in systems integration, robotics, or autonomous vehicles * Demonstrated leadership of engineering teams in high-stakes environments * Background in payload integration, electro-optical and radio frequency components, or closely related fields * Ability to obtain a Secret clearance * Up to 25% travel may be required, * Advanced degree (M.S., Ph.D.) in engineering * 7+ years of experience in hardware engineering, system integration, robotics, or autonomous vehicles * Experience working on robotics and autonomous systems for Department of War applications * Experience in DoD acquisition programs or direct collaboration with military end-users * Experience with payload integration on ground vehicles * Experience with radar, electronic warfare, and /or remote weapon system integration onto ground combat vehicles * Experience with test procedures and requirements for MIL-STD-810H, ATPD-2404, ATPD-2407, ATPD-2099 or similar documents ## Description The Emerging Technologies team at Forterra develops mission specific, autonomous ground vehicle platforms spanning both the military and commercial vehicle applications. Our systems must be field ready, reliable, and compliant with safety, cybersecurity, and mission assurance standards. We work closely with government and commercial stakeholders to deliver high-performance ground autonomy solutions for complex, real-world environments. We are seeking a Hardware Integration Lead to direct hardware integration for complex defense autonomy programs within Emerging Technologies serving as the technical owner, Architect, and engineering lead. As a Hardware Integration Lead, you will be responsible for the detailed technical execution, hardware architecture, and engineering execution across all hardware disciplines (mechanical, electrical, and test). You will lead the physical integration of 1st and 3rd party payloads for developmental prototypes and ultimately scale to production. You will also drive hardware product improvements to Core Product for the hardware aspects of base vehicle platforms, edge compute, and sensors. This hands-on leadership role carries accountability for technical outcomes from concept through integration and delivery. The Hardware Integration Lead will interface directly with government customers, partner with Chief Engineers and Integration Managers, manage internal engineering execution, collaborate with internal partners (Operations, Hardware, Core Product, etc.), and support delivery of a fully integrated, mission-capable system. This position is not a coordination role - it requires technical judgment, system level and lifecycle thinking, direct problem-solving, hands-on leadership, and decision making under pressure. What you'll do Program Technical Leadership * Coordinate the hardware development lifecycle for integrated vehicle systems, ensuring robust, reliable autonomy and seamless subsystem interaction, and robust payload integration * Define, manage, and own the logical, physical, and electrical system architecture for programs in the hardware domain * Define, manage, and own the physical interface(s) for payload integration * Lead technical execution across multiple engineering disciplines (electrical, mechanical, systems, and systems integration) * Manage and mitigate technical and programmatic risks through proactive design * Ensure alignment with overall program milestones and delivery dates * Collaborate with defense customers, partners, and vendors to align on technical solutions and delivery milestones * Partner closely with the Chief Engineer and work directly with the Integration Manager to ensure your hardware pt, high-performing hardware engineering staffing Systems Engineering & Integration * Lead the development and decomposition of hardware system requirements and interface definitions for programs and payloads * Lead hardware preparation, technical artifacts, and clear-to-build criteria for program milestones, including Hardware SRR, PDR, CDR, and Manufacturing Readiness Reviews (MRR) * Ensure compliance with program-specific standards including MIL-STD-882E, MIL-STD-810H, amongst others * Define V+V Metrics: Define, implement, and track hardware Verification and Validation (V+V) metrics; coordinate hardware validation and verification campaigns * Ensure system reliability in extreme physical environments while supporting test events and live demos Cross-Functional Influence * Operate with full accountability for hardware, even in the absence of direct authority or guidance * Prioritize tasks and resources to maximize team hardware team output in a fluid and dynamic environment * Represent the program at technical reviews, demonstrations, and key stakeholder engagements Artifact & Compliance Management * Create and / or manage all required engineering artifacts: hardware system requirements, interface control documents, safety analyses, etc.