Hardware Engineer - Core Compute

A leading U.S. defense contractor is seeking a Senior Electrical Hardware Engineer in Sterling Heights, MI to support the design, development, and qualification of ruggedized computing and interface hardware for ground combat vehicle systems. This is a contract-to-hire opportunity (12–36 months) focused on advanced processing, interface, and target detection hardware supporting Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA) and SOSA-aligned platforms. Compensation for this role ranges from $50–$65 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.

This role offers the opportunity to work on mission-critical defense programs supporting next-generation ground vehicle technologies. The ideal candidate will contribute across the full hardware lifecycle—from requirements and architecture through design, debug, test, and qualification—while collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams in a hands-on, fast-paced environment. Engineers in this role gain exposure to cutting-edge open architecture standards, complex embedded systems, and long-term defense programs with strong stability and growth potential.

Contract Duration:
12–36 Months (Contract to Hire)

Required Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering

• 10+ years of experience designing, debugging, and testing electrical hardware for embedded or computing systems

• Experience with ruggedized hardware designs supporting defense or mission-critical environments

• Knowledge across multiple hardware domains including digital and analog circuit design, PCB layout, embedded microprocessor and microcontroller hardware design, and high-speed signal integrity

• Familiarity with open architecture standards and technologies such as MOSA, SOSA, GCIA, and TSN

• Experience working with industry-standard interfaces including PCIe, USB, RS-422/485, MIL-1553, Ethernet, and CAN

• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams

• Ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance

Desired Skills & Experience

• Target Detection hardware experience

• FPGA design and simulation experience using Xilinx toolsets

• Experience with graphics, video, and display interfaces

• Familiarity with military design and test standards including MIL-1275, MIL-461, MIL-464, and MIL-810

• Previous experience supporting ground combat vehicle programs

What You Will Be Doing

Tech Breakdown

• Design and development of ruggedized computing and interface hardware for defense systems

• Hardware architecture analysis, trade studies, and engineering reviews

• Schematic development, component selection, circuit simulation, and PCB layout support

• Embedded processor and microcontroller hardware design and integration

• Hardware debug, test, qualification, and production support

• Support for MOSA/SOSA-aligned system architectures and target detection applications

Daily Responsibilities

• Collaborate with systems, software, and manufacturing teams to support end-to-end hardware development

• Review and develop hardware and software requirements and associated test plans

• Perform hands-on hardware debugging, validation, and design fixes

• Maintain detailed documentation, revision tracking, and configuration control

• Participate in technical reviews and provide engineering support throughout the product lifecycle

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability.

As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan.

Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.