At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and build cutting-edge optical sensing systems for real-world applications.
- Company: Join a growing high-tech company making a difference in chemical analysis.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, healthcare, dental, vision, and 401k matching.
- Other info: Fast-paced, collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Be part of innovative technology that safeguards communities and first responders.
- Qualifications: B.S. or M.S. in Applied Physics or related field with hands-on engineering experience.
About Pendar Technologies
Pendar Technologies is a small, growing high-tech company that is advancing the field of intelligent chemical analysis. Leveraging advanced Raman laser spectroscopy and robust detection algorithms, our flagship product, the Pendar X10, represents the forefront of opto-mechanical innovation in hazardous material identification, which we manufacture onsite. Our innovative solutions assist first responders, law enforcement, and military personnel in identifying the chemicals they encounter in the field. Join Pendar to become part of a place that's developing cutting-edge technology and is making a significant impact safeguarding our country and communities.
About the Role
Pendar Technologies is seeking an R&D Engineer to support the development, testing, and improvement of advanced optical sensing systems. This role is hands-on and spans research, product development, and manufacturing support, with ownership of optomechanical design work. This role will design, build, and deploy automation cells and will work across multiple domains including materials (e.g., surface cleaning, adhesives), system reliability, automation, and environmental testing. Key to this role is a strong understanding of the fundamentals and the ability to take an idea from CAD through assembly and testing — we're looking for someone who has already done this independently, for example designing and building their own experimental or optomechanical apparatus.
This is an ideal role for a sharp engineer who learns quickly and enjoys building, experimenting, and solving real-world hardware problems in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Primary Responsibilities
- Design optomechanical mounts, alignment schemes, and automation cell architecture, from concept through fabrication and test.
- Build and evaluate physical prototypes to validate new design concepts and assess assembly methods, precision optomechanical alignment procedures, and manufacturing processes.
- Develop and implement environmental and reliability testing methods based on standards such as MIL-STD-810, including temperature cycling, thermal shock, humidity exposure, mechanical shock and vibration, electromagnetic susceptibility, and altitude testing.
- Collect, analyze, and present performance and reliability data generated from prototypes and test systems operating under a variety of environmental and stress conditions.
- Investigate product and process failures, perform root cause analysis, and support corrective action implementation.
- Design, build, improve, and maintain engineering test equipment, manufacturing fixtures, and experimental setups.
- Take a leading role in early-stage product testing, performance evaluation, and quality assessment activities.
Qualifications
-
- B.S. or M.S. in Applied Physics or related Hardware Engineering field (e.g. mechanical, electrical, robotics)
- 2–5 years of experience (internships or research experience included)
- Experienced in CAD (SolidWorks) to quickly turn ideas into designs.
- Strong hands-on skills in mechanical assembly, wiring, soldering, electronics controllers, and familiarity with machine shop tools and 3D printing.
- Strong communication and documentation skills are required for recording and sharing SOPs and test results with other engineers
Nice to Have
- Familiarity with data analysis software tools (Python, MATLAB, MINITAB, etc.)
- Experience with PCB prototyping
- Exposure to standard manufacturing engineering practices.
Location and Additional Information
- This is a full-time position, fully on-site in Cambridge, MA, accessible by car, bike, and bus
- Salary range of $90,000 to $120,000 depending on the candidate
- Competitive benefits include healthcare, dental, vision, and matching 401k
R&D Hardware Engineer in Cambridge employer: Pendar Technologies
Pendar Technologies is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and innovative work culture, where engineers can thrive while developing cutting-edge technology that has a real-world impact. Located in Cambridge, MA, our team enjoys competitive benefits, including healthcare and a matching 401k, alongside ample opportunities for professional growth and collaboration in a hands-on environment. Join us to be part of a mission-driven company that values creativity and problem-solving in the field of intelligent chemical analysis.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Hardware Engineer in Cambridge
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time R&D Hardware Engineer role you’re after at Pendar Technologies.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Pendar Technologies a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Pendar Technologies.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like R&D Hardware Engineer at Pendar Technologies, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace R&D Hardware Engineer in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like R&D Hardware Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Pendar Technologies a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Pendar Technologies specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pendar Technologies
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Pendar Technologies, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Pendar Technologies want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
