Project Description
Senior Hardware Engineer – Air-Gapped Crypto Wallet
Company: Cold Crypt
Location: Remote (initially) → Tampa, Florida (hybrid/in-office after initial phase)
Type: Full-time / Contract-to-hire
About Cold Crypt
Cold Crypt is building a next-generation, defense-grade, air-gapped hardware wallet designed to redefine crypto security.
Our mission is to combine:
Military-level protection
Premium, consumer-grade experience
True non-custodial ownership
The device will integrate advanced features such as:
AI-powered voice interaction
Multi-factor authentication (biometrics + PIN + voice)
Real-time anomaly detection
All while ensuring that private keys never leave a secure, offline environment.
About the Role
We are seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer to lead the architecture and development of our flagship device.
This is a foundational role, working directly with leadership and collaborating closely with software and security teams to bring a highly secure, air-gapped wallet from concept to production.
Key Responsibilities
Design and develop the complete hardware architecture for a secure, air-gapped crypto wallet
Select and integrate:
Secure element chips
Microcontrollers
Biometric sensors
Voice input hardware
Tamper-resistant components
Ensure true air-gapped operation, including offline transaction signing (QR-based or equivalent)
Implement advanced physical security protections, including:
Side-channel attack mitigation
Tamper detection and response
Secure key storage architecture
Collaborate with software engineers on:
AI voice control integration
Anomaly detection systems
Lead:
Component sourcing
Schematic design
PCB layout
Prototyping and testing
Support transition from prototype → production, including manufacturing considerations
Work toward applicable security certifications (e.g., Common Criteria EAL5+/EAL6+)
Required Qualifications
Strong experience in embedded systems and secure hardware design
Hands-on experience with secure element chips (e.g., ATECC608, OPTIGA Trust, STMicroelectronics secure elements)
Proven experience with or deep understanding of:
Crypto hardware wallets OR
Air-gapped systems / high-security devices
Proficiency with:
PCB design tools (Altium, KiCad, or similar)
Microcontrollers (e.g., STM32 or equivalent)
Hardware-based cryptography
Solid understanding of:
Side-channel attacks
Tamper resistance techniques
Secure boot and firmware integrity
Ability to work remotely initially and collaborate in person in Tampa as needed
Preferred / Nice-to-Have
Direct experience building or contributing to a crypto hardware wallet
Experience with air-gapped transaction systems (QR-based signing, offline flows)
Knowledge of biometric systems (fingerprint, facial recognition, voice anti-spoofing)
Experience with low-power design and battery management
Familiarity with secure manufacturing and supply chain considerations
What We Offer
Competitive salary + equity
Token allocation ($COLD)
Opportunity to build a category-defining security product
Early-stage, high-impact role with direct influence on architecture and design
Remote-first flexibility with future Tampa-based collaboration
How to Apply
If you’re excited about building one of the most secure hardware wallets on the market, please send:
Your resume
Relevant project links (GitHub, hardware portfolio, case studies)
A short note on why you’re a strong fit