Role description

We are hiring a Founding Hardware Engineer to help build and operate the physical systems behind our process and prototyping stack.

This is a hands-on engineering role for someone comfortable working close to equipment, materials, manufacturing methods, and real-world constraints. You should be able to move between design, fabrication, assembly, troubleshooting, and secure lab execution.

What you will work on
hardware systems for fabrication and process development
lab and equipment setup, modification, and maintenance
prototyping and fixture design for internal engineering workflows
manufacturing methods for quick iteration and constrained builds
practical engineering work that bridges process, mechanical, and electronics needs

Ideal background

We are especially interested in candidates with experience in several of the following:
handling or working around hazardous materials
cleanroom work or process-oriented lab environments
manufacturing methods such as 3D printing, CNC machining, or sintering
systems involving high-pressure gases
working safely with acids, bases, and other chemically sensitive processes




equipment troubleshooting, modification, and buildout
resource-constrained hardware projects where speed and practicality matter

Qualifications
Robust hands-on hardware engineering ability and comfort working directly with tools, equipment, and physical systems
Experience with hazardous materials or safety-sensitive lab/manufacturing environments
Experience with manufacturing and fabrication methods including at least some of: 3D printing, CNC manufacturing, sintering, gas handling, or wet chemistry processes
Ability to design, build, debug, and improve hardware systems under practical budget, tooling, and schedule constraints
Willingness to work across multiple disciplines in an early-stage environment

Helpful experience
cleanroom experience
electronics prototyping experience such as PCB design, breadboarding, instrumentation, or embedded bring-up
semiconductor, materials, or advanced manufacturing exposure
experience building tooling, fixtures, enclosures, or custom process hardware

📌 Founding Hardware Engineer Alton (Canada)
🏢 MicroAlchemy
📍 Canada