Lead R&D Technician
Lead and manage a team of ~8 technicians building and testing solar installation robots. Own build execution, coach the team, and support engineering in a hands-on onsite role.
About the job
Responsibilities
- Lead and people-manage a team of ~8 technicians, including approving hours/PTO, prioritizing and assigning work, and holding regular 1:1s and performance feedback
- Own build execution: ensure builds are complete, on schedule, and meet quality standards, including final inspection and sign-off
- Upskill the team through hands-on coaching, onboarding new technicians, and building technical and process capabilities
- Support mechanical and software engineering teams in assembly, testing, and support of new robotic systems; translate engineering intent into clear build instructions
- Develop and maintain engineering documentation, including assembly instructions and SOPs
- Maintain and organize the workshop; drive continuous-improvement initiatives (5S, tooling/fixture planning, build-process efficiency)
- Own and reinforce the team's culture of safety, including following and enforcing safety procedures
Requirements
- At least 5 years of relevant experience in mechanical and/or electrical assembly, including prior experience leading or mentoring technicians
- Strong mechanical, electrical, equipment, and safety intuition refined through personal or professional projects
- Comfortable interpreting schematics/CAD drawings and assembling complex electromechanical systems independently
- Positive attitude, enjoy working in-person, and excited about managing and motivating a small team
- Available to work 5 days/week from San Leandro, CA headquarters
Nice-to-Haves
- Experience working with industrial robot arms, end effectors, and industrial automation systems
- Excited to see robots deployed on solar construction sites and play a direct role in fighting climate change
Skills
Mechanical Assembly, Electrical Assembly, Schematics Interpretation, Cad Drawings, Electromechanical Systems, Team Leadership, Mentoring, Sop Development, 5S Methodology, Safety Procedures
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