VP, Hardware

Job Description

Job Title: VP, Hardware. Location: British Columbia, Canada

Responsibilities:

• Build, lead, and scale a world-class hardware organization across mechanical, electrical, optical/photonics, FPGA, RF, cryogenics, and related engineering disciplines
• Define and execute the hardware architecture and technology roadmap aligned with engineering and scientific milestones
• Integrate multidisciplinary engineering teams into a cohesive hardware development organization;
• Establish strong execution processes, program management, and predictable delivery while supporting innovation
• Collaborate closely with engineering, chip design, software, and science teams to ensure successful end-to-end hardware integration
• Make high-quality technical and organizational decisions in fast-changing development environments
• Identify and mitigate hardware risks throughout design, integration, and production cycles
• Drive buy-versus-build decisions and work with procurement teams to maintain a secure supply chain

Qualifications:

• Proven experience leading large multidisciplinary hardware organizations developing complex hardware platforms
• Strong track record delivering integrated hardware systems in environments with evolving requirements and architectures
• Deep technical expertise across mechanical, electrical, optical/photonics, FPGA, and RF engineering
• Experience building and scaling engineering teams while maintaining technical excellence;
• Strong operational leadership with the ability to convert research into executable hardware programs
• Experience using AI and LLM-assisted analytics tools with an understanding of validation, governance, and limitations
• Excellent written, verbal, and executive communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines

Preferred:

• Experience in quantum computing, photonics, semiconductors, or other advanced deep-tech industries
• Experience building engineering organizations from early-stage development through commercial scale
• Strong understanding of hardware and software co-design for performance, scalability, and manufacturability

Benefits And Compensation:

• Base salary of CAD $280,000 to CAD $395,000 per year
• Equity and stock options
• Relocation assistance for global candidates
• Comprehensive health, dental, life, and long-term disability coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Parental leave top-ups
• Flexible spending account
• Inclusive and collaborative work environment
• Regular social events and team activities

Other Information:

• Submit a cover letter together with your resume in a single file describing your fit for the role and the strengths you would bring to the team
• AI tools may assist with application review, but all hiring decisions are made by people
• Applications are encouraged even if you do not meet every listed qualification;
• Photonic is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and providing accommodations throughout the hiring process.