Senior Hardware Engineering Manager

We're building the world's largest hydration platform to replace a $1.5 trillion industry controlled by Coca-Cola and Pepsi — companies selling sugar water in plastic. Their model is stuck in the past. We're changing that, from the workplace.
In 2025: #2 fastest growing tech company in the Netherlands (Deloitte Fast
50). #30 fastest growing in Europe (Sifted
250). We're an AI-native company — AI is how we build, not an afterthought.
About the role  We’re looking for a Senior Hardware Engineering Manager to own the execution of the full development of our hardware products — from concept through engineering, industrialization, and production. You’ll lead the engineering teams that build our hardware: connected water dispensers, touchscreen interfaces, IoT systems, and next‑generation devices.
You report to the Head of Physical Product and work within a product‑led structure. The best version of this role is someone who sees that as an advantage — engineering credibility earned through great execution, not org chart position. You work closely with Product Management, Project Management, Operations, and Supply Chain. This is a hands‑on technical leadership role — you’re not just managing engineers, you’re accountable for what they ship.
What you’ll own   Lead the three engineering pillars:
Hardware Engineering, Embedded Software Engineering, and Process Development & Industrialization
Own the technical execution of the product roadmap — translate product requirements into engineered, manufactured products
Manage the full NPI process from prototype to production release
Build and develop a high‑performing engineering team — hire, coach, set standards
Bridge product management and engineering — translate “what and why” into “how and when”
Manage external engineering partners, contract manufacturers, and technical vendors
Establish and improve engineering processes: ways of working, design reviews, testing protocols, documentation
About you   8‑10 years of overall experience in roles related to product development or engineering
5+ years in leadership positions, ideally in connected hardware / IoT
Track record of taking embedded hardware products from concept through to mass production
Deep understanding of hardware engineering, embedded systems, and industrialization processes
Experience managing multidisciplinary engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, embedded software)
Fluent in DFM, DFA, and NPI processes — you’ve worked with contract manufacturers and know what it takes to scale
Comfortable operating in a fast‑moving scale‑up environment where priorities shift and speed matters
Strong communicator who can translate complex technical trade‑offs for non‑technical stakeholders
Based in the Netherlands or willing to relocate — this role requires regular on‑site presence
Bonus Points   Experience in water treatment, beverage dispensing, or food‑safe appliance design
Background in connected consumer hardware (touchscreens, NFC, telemetry)
Worked in a company that bridged B2B hardware with consumer‑facing experiences
Familiarity with CE/UL certification processes
Why Aquablu?  Benchmark salary in line with your level of experience
Equity through our Aquablu for All plan – because everyone shares in what we’re building
Quarterly team events at our HQ in Amsterdam (Houthavens)
Curious about our story & culture? Check our documentaries on Youtube!

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