Hardware Technician

Job description

Why LeoLabs? At LeoLabs, we’re building the living map of activity in space. Through our proprietary global radar network and AI-enabled analytics platform, we collect millions of measurements daily on more than 25,000 objects in low Earth orbit (LEO). Our radar-powered intelligence protects billions in assets, monitors adversarial behavior, and ensures safe operations for commercial and government missions. We’re not just building technology, we are redefining global security, safety, and transparency in space. As orbital activity accelerates and threats grow more complex, LeoLabs is a trusted partner for Space Domain Awareness, Space Traffic Management, and Satellite Operations for top-tier space operators and allied defense organizations. If you're looking to work on mission-critical challenges at the forefront of aerospace, national security, and AI, your impact starts here. As a Hardware Technician, you will play a hands-on role in building and supporting the next generation of LeoLabs radar systems. You'll split your time between production builds, prototype development, and engineering support, helping transform new designs into working hardware while keeping our labs and manufacturing activities moving efficiently. This is an ideal role for someone who enjoys building things, solving practical problems, and working closely with engineers. You will support engineers across the Mechanical Engineering, RF & Electrical Engineering, and Manufacturing teams, contributing to every stage of the hardware development lifecycle. This is a full-time, onsite position based in Menlo Park, California. **You will be responsible for:** - Assemble electromechanical assemblies, cable harnesses, and electronic hardware from engineering drawings, work instructions, and bills of materials - Support prototype builds, engineering experiments, and production hardware builds - Perform soldering, cable fabrication, mechanical assembly, and hardware rework - Operate hand tools, shop equipment, and basic machine tools to fabricate or modify parts and fixtures - Assist engineers with hardware bring-up, testing, troubleshooting, and system integration - Perform inspections and verify hardware meets quality and configuration requirements - Help organize laboratories, production areas, tooling, and inventory to support efficient hardware development - Document build issues and provide feedback that improves manufacturability and assembly processes - Support field returns, repairs, and general hardware maintenance activities as needed **Qualifications** - Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent practical experience - 5+ years of experience assembling complex electromechanical or electronic hardware - Experience reading engineering drawings, assembly instructions, and bills of materials - Strong soldering, cable assembly, and mechanical assembly skills - Experience using hand tools, power tools, and standard shop equipment - Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and electrical assembly issues - Comfortable working in a fast-paced engineering and manufacturing environment - Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. personnel security clearance **Preferred Qualifications** - Experience supporting prototype hardware development - Experience with PCB rework and fine-pitch soldering - Familiarity with PLM systems such as Arena and ERP systems such as NetSuite - Experience operating drill presses, band saws, belt sanders, and other fabrication equipment - IPC certification or equivalent electronics manufacturing experience - Experience supporting aerospace, defense, robotics, or industrial hardware programs **Within 1 month, you’ll:** - Complete onboarding and become familiar with LeoLabs' hardware development process, laboratories, and production workflows - Learn current assembly procedures, tooling, and engineering documentation - Begin supporting prototype and production hardware builds **Within 3 months, you’ll:** - Independently support engineering builds, production activities, and laboratory operations - Become a trusted resource for assembly, rework, and prototype hardware - Help improve assembly processes and documentation through hands-on feedback **Within 6 months, you’ll:** - Support multiple hardware development efforts across engineering and manufacturing - Build and rework complex hardware with minimal supervision - Become a go-to resource for solving day-to-day hardware challenges in the lab and production floor **Within 12 months, you’ll:** - Play a key role in supporting the development and production of LeoLabs radar hardware - Help improve manufacturing efficiency, hardware quality, and engineering execution - Be recognized as a trusted hands-on contributor across the Hardware Engineering organization **Compensation** The base salary range for this position is _$96,000 + bonus + stock options + benefits Compensation Note: The salary range for this position is benchmarked based on the designated primary work location for the role. Final compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate's work location, applicable market data, experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors. **Perks and Benefits** - Global workforce: flexible remote/hybrid opportunities - Work on complex, meaningful missions with real-world impact - Unlimited paid time off for most roles - Competitive salary and equity packages - Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage - Access to the forefront of commercial space operations and defense innovation **ITAR Requirements** To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. More information regarding ITAR can be found at DDTC’s website. **Vendor Notification** LeoLabs does not engage external staffing agencies or third-party recruiting firms for this role. Unsolicited candidate submissions will not be considered. ***All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.***