R&D Technician, Robotics Hardware
Other Engineering · Full-time
Irvine, CA, USA
USD 30-55 / hour
Posted on Oct 27, 2026
FieldAI’s Irvine team is where embodied AI meets real robots, real sensors, and real field deployments. Based in the heart of Southern California’s robotics ecosystem, we build risk-aware, reliable, field-ready AI systems that solve the hardest problems in robotics and unlock the full potential of embodied intelligence. If you want your work to ship, get tested on hardware, and improve through real deployments, Irvine is the place. We go beyond typical data-driven approaches or pure transformer-only architectures, combining rigorous engineering with learning systems proven in globally deployed solutions that deliver results today and get better every time our robots run in the field.
Who are We?
Field AI is transforming how robots interact with the real world. We are building risk-aware, reliable, and field-ready AI systems that address the most complex challenges in robotics, unlocking the full potential of embodied intelligence. We go beyond typical data-driven approaches or pure transformer-based architectures, and are charting a new course, with already-globally-deployed solutions delivering real-world results and rapidly improving models through real-field applications.
Learn more at https://fieldai.com.
About the Job
As an R&D Technician, you will be a hands-on contributor responsible for assembling, integrating, and validating Field AI’s sensing and compute payloads. You will build electro-mechanical subsystems, integrate sensors and embedded compute platforms, perform harnessing and power system checks, support functional testing, and ensure every payload is field-ready and reliable. This role bridges mechanical assembly, electrical integration, and practical system-level debugging. You will support both prototype development and production workflows while working closely with engineers to improve build processes and increase system reliability.
What You’ll Get To Do
Assemble perception payloads including LiDAR, cameras, IMUs, GPS receivers, and auxiliary sensors using engineering drawings and build instructions
Install and integrate CPU/GPU compute modules, carrier boards, and microcontroller-based subsystems
Build and route wire harnesses for power, high-speed data, synchronization, and control
Install mounts, enclosures, gaskets, seals, thermal components, and structural hardware
Perform continuity checks, grounding/EMI checks, and power-rail validation
Assist in bring-up of Linux- or ROS2-based embedded compute systems
Validate communication links across Ethernet, USB, CAN, GMSL, and other interfaces
Verify correct connectorization, pinouts, and harness strain-relief practices
Run functional tests including sensor bring-up, calibration checks, compute boot/health tests, and network verification
Document test results, deviations, rework, and repair actions with high accuracy
Support environmental, vibration, mechanical alignment, and thermal characterization tests led by hardware engineers
Conduct inspections for workmanship quality, mechanical stability, and electrical safety
Diagnose wiring faults, mechanical misalignments, intermittent communication issues, thermal faults, and other integration failures
Work closely with electrical, mechanical, and compute engineers to root-cause issues and improve build processes
Provide feedback on assembly workflows, documentation clarity, and opportunities to streamline production
Prepare, stage, and service payloads for real-world deployment
Support integration and troubleshooting activities during lab tests, field trials, and live demonstrations
Perform rapid repairs and reconfigurations in dynamic testing environments
1. Payload Assembly & Integration
2. Electrical, Power, and Communication Bring-Up
3. System Testing & Quality Assurance
4. Debugging & Continuous Improvement
5. Field & Operations Support
What You Have
2+ years of hands-on technician experience in robotics, aerospace, electronics, automotive, or related electro-mechanical assembly environments
Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, torque drivers, and basic machine-shop tools
Ability to read and follow wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, and assembly instructions
Experience building wire harnesses and working with low-voltage electrical systems
Familiarity with embedded compute systems, sensors, or robotics hardware
Strong attention to detail, documentation discipline, and ability to deliver reliable assemblies
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work in workshop, lab, or field environments
What Will Set You Apart
Experience working with perception systems such as LiDAR, cameras, radar, or IMUs
Familiarity with Linux, ROS2, or embedded system bring-up workflows
Soldering, crimping, or IPC-certified workmanship skills
Understanding of thermal management, weather sealing, EMI/EMC basics, and ruggedized mechanical design
Experience supporting prototype builds, rapid iteration cycles, or field test deployments
Ability to design or suggest simple fixtures or jigs to improve assembly and repeatability
Experience assembling complex electro-mechanical systems, especially robotics, drones, or ruggedized field hardware
Our salary range is generous and we consider each individual’s background and experience when determining final compensation. Base pay may vary based on role scope, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and the Irvine, California market.
Why Join FieldAI in Irvine?
In Irvine, you will work where the robots are. Our local team builds and tests systems on real hardware with real sensors, then ships them to operate in unstructured, previously unknown environments around the world. We are solving one of robotics’ hardest challenges: reliable deployment outside the lab. Our Field Foundational Models™ raise the bar for perception, planning, localization, and manipulation, with an emphasis on explainability and safety for real-world use.
You will collaborate with a world-class team that thrives on creativity, resilience, and bold thinking. We bring deep experience from organizations such as DeepMind, NASA JPL, Boston Dynamics, NVIDIA, Amazon, Tesla Autopilot, Cruise, Zoox, Toyota Research Institute, and SpaceX, along with a track record of field deployments and strong performance in DARPA challenge segments.
Be Part of the Next Robotics Revolution
We are looking for builders who want their work to leave the whiteboard and show up on robots. If you enjoy tackling tough, uncharted questions and working across disciplines, you will find your people here. Our teams span AI, software, robotics engineering, product, field deployment, and technical communication, all focused on shipping systems that perform in the real world.
Our headquarters is in Irvine, and we partner closely with teams there as well as colleagues across the US and around the world. Join us in Southern California and help define what dependable, field-ready autonomy looks like.
We value diverse perspectives and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. We evaluate candidates and employees based on merit, qualifications, and performance, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally protected status.
30 - 55 USD
