Contract Technical Recruiter (Hardware)

Apptronik • Austin, TX

47d

About The Position

Apptronik is building robots for the real world to improve human quality of life and to help solve the ever-increasing labor shortage problem. Our team has been building some of the most advanced robots on the planet for years, dating back to the DARPA Robotics Challenge. We apply our expertise across the full robotics stack to some of the most important and impactful problems our society faces, and expect our products and technology to change the world for the better. We value passion, creativity, and collaboration to help us overcome existing technological barriers in the industry to create truly innovative products. You will join a team developing state-of-the-art general-purpose robots designed to operate in human spaces and with human tools. It is designed to work alongside humans, mobilize to human spaces, and manipulate the world around it. JOB SUMMARY We are seeking a highly motivated and results-driven Contract Technical Recruiter (6-month minimum) to support our fast-paced hardware and engineering hiring needs. This role will be heavily focused on sourcing, screening, and coordinating the hiring process for complex roles in Hardware Engineering (ME, EE, Embedded), Manufacturing, and R&D. The ideal candidate has a proven track record in full-cycle recruiting for technical roles, a deep understanding of the hardware product development lifecycle, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Requirements

• Proven success in hiring difficult-to-fill hardware and engineering positions, requiring creative sourcing solutions beyond standard job postings.
• Strong technical acumen; ability to understand the nuances between different engineering disciplines (e.g., standard PCB design vs. high-speed digital design).
• Demonstrated ability to build trusted partnerships with technical hiring managers.
• Strong interest and hands-on capability in sourcing and building your own talent pipeline for niche roles.
• Self-motivated, driven, flexible, and adaptable to changing engineering priorities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with applicant tracking systems (e.g., Greenhouse, Lever, Ashby).
• Embodies the company values of Curiosity, Humility, Integrity, Passion, and Creativity (CHIPC).
• 5+ years of technical recruiting experience, with at least 2+ years specifically focused on Hardware, Robotics, Electro-mechanical systems, or Manufacturing engineering.
• Experience managing full-cycle recruitment processes in a high-growth or startup environment.
• Proven track record of closing senior-level independent contributor and leadership engineering roles.

Responsibilities

• Partner with hiring managers to deeply understand technical requirements and develop targeted job descriptions and hiring strategies for complex hardware roles.
• Source qualified candidates for niche roles using various channels, including LinkedIn Recruiter, publications, and active networking within hardware communities.
• Screen resumes and conduct initial phone/video interviews, vetting candidates for technical depth in areas like mechanical design, electrical engineering, and/or embedded systems.
• Manage candidate pipelines atively, acting as the primary point of contact and ensuring a high-touch experience for in-demand technical talent.
• Manage applicant tracking system (Greenhouse) data entry and compliance with a high degree of accuracy.
• Provide regular, data-driven updates to hiring managers and People team on recruiting activity and market conditions for specialized talent.
• Assist with negotiating offers and coordinating pre-employment processes for technical hires.
• Maintain knowledge of industry trends, specifically within the hardware, robotics, and deep tech talent landscapes.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees