Electrical Technician - Final Assembly & Test (UAV/Drone Systems)

Job description

## The Opportunity: We are seeking an experienced Electrical Technician to join our production team, responsible for final assembly, wiring, and functional testing of complex unmanned aerial systems (UAS) built for firefighting and other mission-critical applications. This role sits at the intersection of hands-on electromechanical assembly and quality-driven testing, ensuring every drone that leaves our facility meets rigorous performance and safety standards. The ideal candidate has deep experience with UAV or robotics hardware, is comfortable working at the component and system level, and takes pride in precision craftsmanship — from a clean solder joint to a fully validated flight-ready system. ## What You’ll Do: - Perform final assembly of of electronics, including wiring harnesses, power distribution systems, flight controllers, motors/ESCs, sensors, and payload electronics - Solder and rework electronic components and connections to a high level of workmanship standards - Crimp and terminate connectors (e.g., JST, Molex, XT, Deans, MOLEX Micro-Fit) for power and signal wiring - Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair printed circuit boards (PCBs) and PCB assemblies (PCBAs) - Conduct functional and systems-level testing of assembled units, including power-on tests, continuity/insulation checks, sensor calibration, motor/ESC verification, and communication link testing - Diagnose and resolve electrical faults using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and other diagnostic equipment - Document test results, non-conformances, and assembly deviations in accordance with quality procedures - Collaborate with engineering to troubleshoot design-for-assembly and design-for-test issues, providing feedback from the production floor - Maintain calibration and organization of tools, test equipment, and workstations - Follow ESD-safe handling procedures for sensitive electronic components - Support root-cause analysis and corrective action processes for recurring build or test issues - Adhere to all safety protocols, particularly those specific to battery handling (LiPo/Li-ion) and high-current systems ## Background and Experience: - 5+ years of hands-on experience in electrical/electromechanical assembly, ideally within UAV, robotics, aerospace, or similarly complex electromechanical systems - Demonstrated experience with UAV or robotics platforms (build, integration, repair, or test) - Proficiency in soldering (through-hole and SMT rework) to industry workmanship standards - Strong crimping and wire harness fabrication skills across multiple connector types and gauges - Experience working with and troubleshooting PCBs/PCBAs at the component level - Comfortable reading wiring diagrams, schematics, and assembly drawings - Working knowledge of test and assembly equipment: multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, hand tools - Understanding of basic electrical principles (voltage, current, resistance, power distribution) - Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality/documentation discipline - Ability to work independently and manage multiple builds/tests in a fast-paced environment ## Preferred Qualifications: - Experience with flight controllers, ESCs, motors, and UAV communication/telemetry systems - Familiarity with battery systems (LiPo/Li-ion) and associated safety handling procedures - IPC-A-610 and/or J-STD-001 certification (or working toward) - Experience in a regulated or mission-critical industry (aerospace, defense, public safety equipment) - Familiarity with ESD control programs and cleanroom/controlled assembly environments - Basic experience with ERP/MES systems for build documentation and traceability - Exposure to firefighting, emergency response, or public-safety equipment standards ## Physical Requirements: *(with or without reasonable accommodation)* - Ability to sit or stand for extended periods at a workbench - Manual dexterity sufficient for fine assembly work, including soldering, crimping, and small connector mating - Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 50 lbs when handling drone units and equipment - Visual acuity sufficient for detailed inspection work, with corrective lenses if needed ## What We Offer: - **Competitive Salary** – Reflective of your skills and experience - **Equity Compensation** – Be a part-owner in the company’s future - **Comprehensive Health Coverage** – Medical, dental, and vision plans - **Health Savings Account (HSA)** – Optional pre-tax savings for medical expenses - **Unlimited PTO** – Flexible time off to recharge, plus paid company holidays **About Us** Seneca is building cutting-edge drone and sensor technology for wildfire suppression, aiming to eliminate wildfire risk across 500 million acres of high-risk U.S. + allied territory. Backed by top-tier investors, including Convective Capital, Caffeinated Capital, First Round Capital, Slow Ventures, Nextview Ventures, Transition Capital, Bullpen Capital, Stepstone Group, Roar Capital, Offline Ventures, and leaders from Palantir, Google, Meta, and many others, the company has raised $110M in Series A funding and is valued over $500 million. Founded by Stu Landesberg (former Founder & CEO of Grove Collaborative — IPO in 2022 at $1.7B) and fire industry experts, Seneca is a mission-driven company dedicated to climate resilience and fire prevention. **Don’t meet every single requirement?** If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification, we encourage you to apply — you may still be the right fit for our team.