Chief Program Engineer (K7)

ZipRecruiter; Mountain View (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company is seeking a Chief Program Engineer to spearhead the K7 Autonomous Security Robot program. This pivotal role involves integrating mechanical, electrical, and software systems to drive the project from concept to market, with significant impact on innovation and mentorship in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Stock option grant

Performance bonus

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Holidays

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience leading complex vehicle, robotics, or autonomous system development programs.
• Deep understanding of vehicle systems and prototype testing.
• Experience with automotive product development and cybersecurity principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical efforts and manage program schedules and risks.
• Supervise prototype builds and production ramp-up processes.
• Mentor junior engineering talent as the team scales.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Technical depth

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Master’s degree

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

Location: Sunnyvale, CA (Knightscope Headquarters) – on-site

Knightscope is seeking a highly driven, hands-on, and technically proficient Chief Program Engineer to lead the K7 Autonomous Security Robot (ASR) program. This key role will oversee the integration of mechanical, electrical, software, firmware and autonomous systems to bring the K7 platform to market at scale. You will serve as the engineering focal point for the program, working cross-functionally with design, engineering, cybersecurity, manufacturing, marketing, sales, service and executive leadership. Given the importance of the program, you will report directly to the CEO.

You must possess strong leadership capabilities, a roll-up-your-sleeves mentality, and technical depth across vehicle systems, robotics, or autonomous platforms – including new product development processes, vehicle re-balancing of targets, gates, and milestones. This is a rare opportunity to build something groundbreaking and meaningful with a mission-driven team in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as the single point of accountability for all technical aspects of the K7 ASR program.
• Lead cross-disciplinary engineering efforts (mechanical, electrical, software, autonomy, embedded systems) to deliver program milestones.
• Manage program schedules, technical risks, design reviews, and technical program documentation.
• Work closely with supply chain and manufacturing teams to ensure cost, quality, and durability targets are met.
• Support prototype builds, test validation, field trials, and eventual production ramp-up.
• Interface with executive leadership for program status updates, major decision reviews, and risk mitigation.
• Maintain a hands-on approach to problem-solving, from root cause analysis to system integration troubleshooting.
• Drive continuous innovation to improve K7 capabilities, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Mentor and develop junior engineering talent as the team scales.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering required; Master’s degree .
• 15+ years of experience leading complex vehicle, robotics, or autonomous system development programs.
• Deep understanding of vehicle systems (chassis, drive systems, electrical, autonomy integration).
• Hands-on experience building and testing complex prototypes and production-intent vehicles.
• Familiarity with automotive new vehicle product development, cybersecurity principles, and autonomous navigation systems is a strong plus.
• Exceptional organizational and leadership skills, with proven ability to manage multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and decision-making under pressure.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, start-up-like environment with minimal supervision.
• U.S. citizenship is required for this position.

COMPENSATION

• Competitive salary
• Stock option grant
• Performance bonus
• Health, dental, vision insurance
• Paid time off, holidays, and more

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to , , , or .