{bc}
Apply
gem

Prototyping Lab Technician, Wearables

Ironsite
San Francisco, USA
Full-time
Entry
Onsite
USD 100000-200000 yearly
Discovered 1 months ago

Full Job Posting

What You'Ll Own

  • Assemble complex electromechanical prototypes and proof-of-concept devices using hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment.
  • Perform fine-pitch SMT and through-hole soldering, PCB rework and modifications, wire harness assembly, and connector crimping.
  • Support new hardware revisions from first article through iterative build cycles, keeping build quality high enough that test results reflect the design, not the assembly.
  • Design custom test fixtures, jigs, cabling harnesses, and small mechanical parts in CAD (SOLIDWORKS, Onshape, Fusion 360, or similar).
  • Fabricate custom parts using rapid prototyping tools: 3D printers, laser cutters, and benchtop CNC mills.
  • Iterate quickly on fixture and part designs based on what the build and test process actually needs.
  • Run functional, stress, reliability, and environmental tests according to plans defined by engineering.
  • Use standard lab instrumentation (multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, logic analyzers) to characterize hardware and isolate issues.
  • Collect, document, and report clean test data so engineers can act on it quickly.
  • Partner with our Forward Deployed Engineers to get new hardware revisions from the lab onto active jobsites for real-world testing.
  • Prepare, pack, and ship prototype devices with the documentation and instructions the field team needs to deploy them successfully.
  • Debug field issues remotely, and when needed, travel to jobsites to support hardware validation directly.
  • Bring structured feedback from the field back into the lab so the next build cycle is faster and better than the last.
  • Identify, debug, and troubleshoot prototype hardware or wiring issues during assembly, test, and field deployment.
  • Support engineering investigations with clean data, clear observations, and hands-on iteration.
  • Help engineers separate design issues from build issues so root cause is found fast.
  • Maintain an organized, safe, and well-equipped R&D workshop and electronics bench.
  • Manage parts inventory, tool calibration, and equipment upkeep.
  • Keep the lab ready for the next build cycle, whenever it starts.

What We'Re Looking For

  • 2-5+ years of hands-on experience as an R&D technician, prototype assembler, or bench technician in an engineering or manufacturing environment.
  • Strong proficiency in soldering (SMT and through-hole), component rework, wire stripping, and connector crimping.
  • Strong mechanical assembly skills using precision tools: calipers, micrometers, torque drivers, drill press, and standard hand tools.
  • Working proficiency in CAD (SOLIDWORKS, Onshape, Fusion 360, or similar). You don't need to design production parts, but you need to be able to design and iterate on test fixtures, custom cabling, and small mechanical pieces yourself.
  • Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping tools: 3D printers, laser cutters, or benchtop CNC.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical CAD drawings, electrical schematics, and bills of materials.
  • Familiarity with standard electrical test equipment: multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, logic analyzers.
  • Strong practical troubleshooting skills and a methodical approach to identifying hardware bugs.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills for logging test results, documenting builds, and collaborating with engineers and field team members.
  • Willingness to travel to active jobsites occasionally (typically a few days per month) to support field validation of new hardware.
  • Comfort working in a fast-paced startup environment where priorities shift quickly and no two days look the same.
  • Prior experience supporting hardware development at a wearables, consumer electronics, or ruggedized hardware company.
  • IPC-A-610 or IPC J-STD-001 soldering certifications.
  • Experience supporting field deployment or field testing of hardware, especially in outdoor or industrial environments.
  • Basic familiarity with microcontroller setup (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or similar) or automated test software (LabVIEW, Python scripts).
  • Associate's degree or trade certification in Electronics, Mechanical Technology, or a related field.
  • Experience supporting camera or optical assembly work.
  • Familiarity with battery pack assembly and safe handling procedures.
  • Experience with small production runs, pilot builds, or NPI ramp support.

Work Environment And Physical Requirements

  • Hands-on role requiring daily on-site presence in our R&D lab.
  • Occasional travel to active construction jobsites for hardware field validation, typically a few days per month.
  • Ability to lift up to 35-50 lbs occasionally.
  • Visual acuity to perform fine-pitch soldering and precision mechanical alignment under magnification.
  • Comfort with standard lab safety protocols including chemical handling, ESD protection, and equipment safety.
  • Comfort working in active construction environments as needed for field validation, including outdoor conditions and compliance with site-specific safety requirements.

• San Francisco Bay Area (on-site)

  • Base salary: $100k-$200k per year, commensurate with experience
  • Significant early-stage equity
  • Full benefits including health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with 6% match
  • Daily catered breakfast and lunch
  • Office in San Francisco, next to Oracle Park and the Caltrain

Apply for this job in 1 click

Skip the repetitive application forms

Install the Base Career Chrome Extension and autofill job applications across major job boards with your profile.

Sarah M.James T.Maya R.

Trusted by over 500,000 job seekers on Base Career

Start Free Today

More from this employer

More jobs at Ironsite

Infrastructure Engineer (Member of Technical Staff)

San Francisco, USA

Discovered 1 months agoFull-time

Design Engineer (Member of Technical Staff)

San Francisco, USA

Discovered 1 months agoFull-time

Sr. Research Scientist

San Francisco, USA

Discovered 1 months agoFull-time

IT Engineer

San Francisco, USA

Discovered 1 months agoFull-time

Forward Deployed Engineer

San Francisco, USA

Discovered 1 months agoFull-time

Chief of Staff, Technology

San Francisco, USA

Discovered 1 months agoFull-time

Deployment Engineer

San Francisco, USA

Discovered 1 months agoFull-time

Senior Platform Engineer

San Francisco, USA

Discovered 1 months agoFull-time