Hardware Engineer – Build the Future of Fishing with Maidenfleet
Location: Nelson, New Zealand – The heart of Australasia’s largest fishing port
Salary: Competitive + Equity + Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
Start Date: ASAP
About Maidenfleet
Maidenfleet is not just another start-up—we are here to revolutionize one of the world’s great primary industries. Commercial fishing has remained virtually unchanged for over a century, but we’re rewriting the rules.
Our AI-powered autonomous harvest system will redefine sustainable seafood harvesting, optimizing efficiency, eliminating waste, and shaping the future of the multi billion global fishing industry.
We’re at Day One of building a category-defining company. If you're a world-class Hardware Engineer, this is your chance to get in at the ground floor of what will be a future titan of industry.
We're driven by a vision of a smarter, cleaner, and more sustainable seafood industry, and we're gearing up to build our first commercial prototype. This is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to push boundaries, lead game-changing innovation, and build something truly monumental.
The Role – Hardware Engineer
We are searching for an exceptional Hardware Engineer to lead the design and development of the embedded systems and electronics that power our MK1 Harvest System—a breakthrough in AI-driven autonomous fishing technology.
This mission-critical role will have you working hands-on to design, prototype, and build ruggedized electronics that can thrive in extreme marine environments. If you are obsessed with embedded systems, edge computing, and sensor integration, this is your dream job.
What You'll Be Doing
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Design & develop embedded systems, onboard computing, and sensor integration for real-time autonomy.
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Engineer ruggedized electronics that can handle saltwater exposure, temperature shifts, and extreme vibrations.
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Optimize power management & data networking for remote, real-time operation.
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Build & test hardware prototypes in real-world marine environments.
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Collaborate with AI, mechatronics, and software teams to integrate hardware into an intelligent, autonomous platform.
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Push the boundaries of marine robotics to solve some of the hardest engineering challenges in sustainable fishing.
Who We’re Looking For
Maidenfleet isn’t for just anyone. We need visionaries, builders, and problem-solvers who thrive in uncharted territory.
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Proven experience in hardware design, embedded systems, or electronics engineering.
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Strong hands-on skills in PCB design, microcontrollers, and real-time processing.
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Experience developing ruggedized hardware for harsh environments (marine, aerospace, robotics, or industrial applications).
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Understanding of edge computing, sensor fusion, and hardware-software integration.
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Ability to prototype, test, and iterate quickly in a fast-paced start-up environment.
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Passion for deep-tech innovation and solving real-world challenges.
💡 Bonus (but not required): Experience with autonomous robotics, AI-driven hardware, or marine technology.
We hire obsessively curious, relentless problem-solvers who want to build the future. If you don’t meet every single requirement but believe you should be on this journey, apply anyway.
Why Nelson?
This role is based at our headquarters in Nelson, New Zealand—home to Australasia’s largest fishing port and the beating heart of the seafood industry. Nelson isn’t just a workplace—it’s a lifestyle.
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Marine Innovation Hub – Be at the centre of the region’s rich maritime and seafood industry.
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Outdoor Paradise – With world-class hiking, mountain biking, and water sports right on your doorstep.
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Sunniest City in New Zealand – Enjoy stunning beaches, national parks, and a vibrant community.
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Great Food & Wine – Nestled between renowned vineyards and fresh local seafood markets.
If you want cutting-edge work without sacrificing lifestyle, Nelson offers the perfect balance.
Why Maidenfleet?
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Industry Revolution – Disrupting a multi-billion dollar industry with cutting-edge automation.
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Early-Stage Leadership – Get in at the ground floor and shape the future.
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Hard Problems, Big Impact – Solving critical sustainability and efficiency challenges in global seafood.
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Competitive Pay + Equity – Be part of our long-term success.
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Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity – This is not just a job—it’s a career-defining moment.
Ready to Build the Future?
If you want to define the next era of sustainable fishing, push the boundaries of hardware innovation, and work with some of the smartest, most driven people in the industry—we want to hear from you.
Apply Now!