Lab Technician

Job description

About Sandbar Sandbar is an interface company in New York City. We aim to augment individuals so we can each think, act, and move more freely. Our team has built SW, ML, and HW products across Meta, CTRL-labs, Google, Apple, Fitbit, Peloton, and Equinox. Our first product, Stream, is a self extension—a private voice ring and conversational interface. Stream has been featured in WSJ, Bloomberg, & Wired, and begins shipping in Summer '26. Join us in creating technology that extends human thinking. About We’re seeking a senior Hardware Lab Technician to support the development of new wearable consumer electronics products. In this role, you’ll collaborate closely with our Electrical, Mechanical, Firmware, and Quality engineers to ensure efficient lab operations, prototype testing, and rapid iteration in a fast-paced product development environment. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic startup setting, maintains rigorous lab standards, and has a proven track record of filtering through complex hardware challenges to deliver reliable results. Responsibilities - Perform advanced electrical and mechanical testing, debugging, and rework on prototypes, including failure analysis, root cause identification, and data-driven reporting to engineering teams. - Build and assemble electronic devices, mechanical fixtures, and test setups; develop and execute automated test scripts using tools like LabVIEW or Python for efficient data collection and validation. - Order, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot lab equipment, tools, and consumables, ensuring compliance with safety protocols (e.g., ESD, chemical handling) and maintaining a clean, organized, and secure lab space. - Manage the full lifecycle of prototype hardware, including receiving, inventory tracking, secure storage, distribution, and disposal, while optimizing for efficiency in high-volume prototyping cycles. - Own and optimize hardware-specific IT systems, including network configurations, data logging setups, and integration with cloud-based tools for remote access and collaboration. - Collaborate cross-functionally with engineers to prototype new circuits, resolve on-site issues, and support remote troubleshooting; train junior team members or lab users on equipment best practices and safety. - Analyze test data using statistical methods to identify defects, trends, and improvements; prepare detailed reports and visualizations to inform product decisions. Qualifications - 4+ years of experience as a lab technician in a hardware product development environment, preferably in consumer electronics, wearables, or high-tech R&D labs - Proven expertise in soldering and reworking fine-pitch components (e.g., 0201 or smaller SMT, through-hole, and BGA), with hands-on experience in PCB assembly, modification, and validation. - Ability to read and interpret complex electrical schematics, board layouts (using tools like Allegro or similar CAD viewers), and perform signal integrity analysis. - Proficiency with a wide range of electrical test equipment, including oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, multimeters, power supplies, data loggers, e-loads, and logic analyzers. - Strong knowledge of operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux) and basic networking (e.g., switches, routers, remote desktop); experience with scripting for automation (e.g., Python, Bash) to streamline testing workflows. - Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field; relevant certifications (e.g., IPC-A-610 for soldering, CompTIA A+ for hardware, or lab safety training) are highly preferred. - Excellent problem-solving skills with a detail-oriented approach; ability to multitask in a collaborative team environment, communicate technical findings clearly, and document processes meticulously. - Commitment to health, safety, and environmental standards; experience maintaining lab compliance and inventory systems (e.g., ERP or asset tracking tools). - Must have ability to travel internationally FTE Benefits - Health, vision, and dental benefits - Company-sponsored 401(k) - Unlimited PTO and sick time - Early stage equity