Wearables Prototype Engineer (Hardware + Software)

Workstream is a mission-driven company building the all-in-one HR, payroll, and hiring platform for managing the hourly workforce. There are 2.7 billion hourly workers, making up 80% of the global workforce, but this market has been heavily underserved by technology and deserves better. Workstream has been purpose-built for the hourly workforce from day one so that these businesses and their employees can thrive. Our customers include leading brands from multiple sectors, including Burger King, Carl's Jr./Hardee's, IHOP, KFC, and Culvers. We are a high growth series B company and quickly expanding our product portfolio to deliver on our vision. We are backed by legendary VCs and industry experts like Founders Fund, BOND, and Coatue. Grow With Us We are looking for a highly creative, hands-on Wearables Prototype Engineer to design, build, and iterate on next-generation wearable devices that integrate seamlessly with Workstream’s platform. In this role, you will operate at the intersection of hardware and software—rapidly prototyping, testing, and refining wearable solutions that can improve productivity, communication, and operations for the hourly workforce. You will work closely with product, engineering, and design teams to bring ideas from concept to functional prototypes. This is a highly experimental and fast-paced role, ideal for someone who thrives in ambiguity, enjoys building from scratch, and can move quickly from idea to working prototype. Day in the Life Design, build, and iterate on wearable hardware prototypes from concept through functional validation Develop embedded software and firmware to power wearable devices and enable real-time data capture and communication Integrate wearable devices with Workstream’s platform, APIs, and mobile/web applications Rapidly prototype using off-the-shelf components (MCUs, sensors, Bluetooth modules, etc.) and custom PCB designs Conduct testing, debugging, and performance optimization across both hardware and software components Collaborate with product and design teams to define use cases, user experience, and product requirements Evaluate new technologies, sensors, and components to improve device capabilities and reliability Document designs, prototypes, and learnings to support iteration and potential production scaling Support transition from prototype to early-stage production, including vendor coordination if applicable Who You Are 3–7+ years of experience in hardware engineering, embedded systems, or wearable device development Strong experience with embedded programming (C/C++, Python, or similar) Hands-on experience with microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, ESP32, STM32) and common communication protocols (BLE, Wi-Fi, UART, I2C, SPI) Experience designing and debugging hardware prototypes, including basic circuit design and PCB development Familiarity with sensors commonly used in wearables (motion, biometric, environmental, etc.) Ability to move quickly from concept to prototype with a strong bias toward action Strong problem-solving skills and comfort working in ambiguous, experimental environments Ability to collaborate across hardware, software, and product teams Bonus Points Experience building or shipping wearable products (e.g., smartwatches, fitness trackers, IoT devices) Familiarity with mobile app integration (iOS/Android) and Bluetooth connectivity Experience with rapid prototyping tools (3D printing, CAD design, etc.) Exposure to manufacturing processes and scaling hardware products Interest in the future of work, IoT, or connected devices for frontline workers What We Offer A mission-driven and value-based company dedicated to empower deskless workers and local businesses An early employee opportunity at a Series B hyper-growth startup; work with the founding team and industry veterans to accelerate your career Competitive salary and equity Comprehensive health coverage: medical, dental, and vision. We pay 95% of your premiu ... (truncated, view full listing at source)