Long-Term ESP32 / Edge AI Hardware Designer - Fixed-Price Collaboration

About the project

*Embedded Hardware Design Engineer (ESP32 / Edge AI / RFID / LTE) – Long-Term Fixed-Price Collaboration* Note: This project is intended for production hardware, not hobby or proof-of-concept development. Applicants should have experience taking PCB designs through prototype validation and manufacturing. ## Overview We are looking for an experienced Embedded Hardware Design Engineer for a long-term collaboration on multiple commercial embedded hardware products. The projects involve the design of production-ready embedded electronics using modern MCUs, Edge AI processors, RFID, cellular connectivity, battery-powered systems and industrial-grade power management. Due to the confidential nature of our products, detailed technical requirements will only be shared with shortlisted candidates after mutual agreement. --- ## Required Experience Applicants should have demonstrable experience with several of the following: * ESP32 (especially ESP32-S3) * Kendryte K230 or comparable Edge AI SoCs * RFID / NFC hardware * LTE/4G modules (Quectel, SIMCom or similar) * USB, SPI, I²C, UART, GPIO * Battery-powered embedded systems * Li-Ion and LiFePO₄ charging circuits * UPS / Power-path management * Reverse polarity protection * Buck/Boost converters * KiCad PCB design * High-speed PCB layout * EMC/ESD design practices * Manufacturing-ready hardware development * Embedded Linux (preferred) --- ## Scope of Work Work will be assigned as individual fixed-price projects with clearly defined requirements. Typical assignments may include: * Hardware architecture * Component selection * Schematic design * PCB layout * Design review * BOM preparation * Footprint verification * Manufacturing documentation * Prototype support * Hardware debugging --- ## Deliverables Depending on the project, deliverables will include: * Complete KiCad project (schematic + PCB) * Fully editable source files * ERC/DRC clean design * Manufacturing-ready Gerbers * Drill files * Pick & Place files * Assembly drawings * Fabrication drawings * STEP/3D model * Complete BOM with manufacturer part numbers and approved alternatives where applicable * Footprint validation against selected components * Design notes and documentation No private or proprietary component libraries shall be used unless explicitly approved. All deliverables must be fully editable and suitable for future maintenance by another engineer. --- ## Collaboration Model This is **not an hourly engagement**. Each assignment will be a **fixed-price project** with clearly defined scope, milestones, deliverables, and acceptance criteria. Successful completion of one project may lead to additional fixed-price projects over the long term. --- ## Important Expectations Quality is significantly more important than speed. Candidates should be comfortable asking questions, proposing improvements, identifying design risks and challenging assumptions where appropriate. We value engineering judgement over simply implementing instructions. --- ## Payment Terms Please read carefully before applying. Due to previous experiences involving missed deadlines, incomplete deliverables and designs requiring extensive rework, we follow a results-based payment model. * This is a fixed-price engagement. * Payments are tied to agreed deliverables and successful completion of project milestones. * Final acceptance is based on the delivered design meeting the agreed technical requirements and being suitable for prototype manufacturing. * We expect reasonable post-delivery support to resolve any design-related issues identified during initial prototype validation. We are looking for engineers who are confident in the quality of their work and interested in building a long-term professional relationship. --- ## To Apply Please include: 1. Examples of production hardware you have designed. 2. KiCad projects you have completed (if available). 3. Experience with ESP32, Edge AI SoCs, RFID, LTE or similar platforms. 4. Your preferred fixed-price engagement model. 5. Your typical turnaround time for schematic and PCB design. 6. Any experience taking products from prototype through manufacturing. We are seeking a reliable engineering partner for multiple commercial hardware products over the coming months. Strong communication, attention to detail and commitment to quality are essential.

Skills required