Base Operations Lead - Vehicle Technicians

Frontdoor Defense; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 62,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Zoox is seeking a Team Lead for Base Operations in San Francisco to drive the operational backbone of the Robotaxi fleet readiness. You will manage the full team lifecycle, develop SOPs, enforce safety standards, and build scalable processes with cross-functional partners.

You will lead with data-driven decisions, supervise technicians and leads, and translate company growth plans into practical execution models while ensuring quality and safety across workshops.

Qualifications

• 6+ years hands-on automotive technician experience.
• 3+ years of people leadership in technical environments.
• Proficient in CAN/LIN architecture, wiring diagrams, and soldering.
• Experience implementing SOPs and standard work.
• Strong EH&S compliance knowledge and 5S.
• Extensive knowledge of automotive systems and diagnostics.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; able to influence stakeholders.
• Able to travel locally and nationally (50%+).

Responsibilities

• Lead full team lifecycle: workforce planning, onboarding, performance management to build high-performing teams grounded in safety and quality.
• Coach and develop technicians and leads with clear expectations and succession plans.
• Develop and enforce SOPs across inspections, maintenance, and upgrades with audited documentation.
• Use data, root-cause analysis, and standard work to improve throughput and uptime.
• Ensure tools, equipment, parts, and facilities are standardized and ready to meet demand.
• Champion EH&S and 5S, maintaining a safe, organized work environment.
• Identify risks and drive corrective actions for safety concerns and process gaps.
• Define and track KPIs on fleet readiness, quality, and downtime; drive accountability.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Test, and Facilities to align operations with roadmaps and milestones.
• Lead scaling initiatives for increased fleet size and new platforms; support site launches.

Skills

Hands-on automotive technician

People leadership

CAN/LIN architectures

SOPs & standard work

EH&S compliance

Automotive systems & diagnostics

Communication skills

Multi-priority management

Travel availability 50%+

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

NVH test equipment

Vehicle dynamics test equipment

Thermal/durability testing equipment

Job description

Zoox is seeking a Team Lead for Base Operations in San Francisco to drive the operational backbone of the Robotaxi fleet readiness. You will manage the full team lifecycle, develop SOPs, enforce safety standards, and build scalable processes with cross-functional partners.

You will lead with data-driven decisions, supervise technicians and leads, and translate company growth plans into practical execution models while ensuring quality and safety across workshops.