Development Technician

The Valentino Group; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 68,880 - 82,656; Full time

Job summary

The Valentino Group in San Francisco is looking for a skilled Development Technician to join their Vehicle team, focused on building and assembling advanced hardware for test campaigns. You will work with various tools and processes in a dynamic environment where safety and precision are paramount.

The ideal candidate will have over 2 years of experience in sheet metal fabrication and mechanical assembly, with a strong understanding of troubleshooting mechanical systems. Compensation ranges from $50 to $60 per hour, based on experience.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of hands-on experience in sheet metal fabrication, mechanical assembly, or manual machining.
• Strong troubleshooting ability with mechanical and fluid systems.
• High attention to detail and pride in quality workmanship.
• Willingness to work flexible hours (evenings/weekends) to support critical test windows.
• High school diploma or GED required (technical certification or associate degree preferred).

Responsibilities

• Build and assemble development and production parts using hand tools and installation practices.
• Fabricate components using sheet metal and tube tools.
• Perform welding operations including setup.
• Assist with setup, execution, and teardown of system tests.
• Maintain and troubleshoot vacuum hardware, pumps, and related systems.

Skills

Sheet metal fabrication

Mechanical assembly

Manual machining

Troubleshooting mechanical systems

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical certification or associate degree

Tools

CAD tools

Precision measurement tools

Welding equipment

Job description

Our clients Vehicle team owns the full lifecycle of complex, safety-critical systems—from early design through fabrication, integration, and test. The group works hands-on with hardware, partnering across engineering, manufacturing, and test to ensure every build performs reliably and meets rigorous standards.

The Opportunity

This is a highly hands-on, technical role for a Development Technician who enjoys building, iterating, and supporting real test campaigns. Youll fabricate and assemble advanced hardware, build tooling and test fixtures, execute development work instructions, and provide feedback to improve build processes. Youll work in dynamic environments where safety, precision, and adaptability matter every day.

What Youll Do

• Build and assemble development and production parts using hand tools and standard installation practices (torque, helicoils/key inserts, fittings, harness routing, safety wire, etc.)
• Fabricate components using sheet metal and tube tools (press brake, shear, slip roller, tube roller, saws, mills, lathes, drills, grinders, deburring and riveting tools)
• Perform welding operations (TIG/MIG/laser), including welding positioner setup; support waterjet programming and operation
• Apply painting, coating, and finishing processes as needed

Inspection, Documentation & Process Improvement

• Read, interpret, and provide feedback on engineering drawings and work instructions
• Document development builds, procedures, and test results with clarity and accuracy
• Inspect parts and materials using precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, scales, pi tapes, dial indicators, plug gauges, etc.)
• Use basic CAD tools to support builds and engineering requests

Test Support & Hardware Readiness

• Assist with setup, execution, and teardown of system tests (proof, leak, flow, and load testing)
• Support test execution with accurate data logging, checklist completion, and documentation of results
• Maintain and troubleshoot vacuum hardware, pumps, instrumentation, and related systems
• Perform cleaning and preparation of components, including oxygen system cleaning
• Troubleshoot issues with build hardware, test systems, and manufacturing equipment in real time to keep campaigns moving

Safety & Operations

• Work safely around high voltage, pressure systems, and hazardous materials; follow PPE and safety procedures without exception
• Operate cranes, forklifts, and rigging equipment safely
• Perform work in varied physical environments, including confined spaces, tanks, platforms, and around moving machinery

What Were Looking For (Required)

• 2+ years of hands-on experience in sheet metal fabrication, mechanical assembly, or manual machining
• Strong troubleshooting ability with mechanical and fluid systems
• High attention to detail and pride in quality workmanship
• Willingness to work flexible hours (evenings/weekends) to support critical test windows
• High school diploma or GED required (technical certification or associate degree preferred)

Nice to Have

• Experience in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, or startup environments
• Familiarity with cryogenics and high-pressure gas systems
• Knowledge of aerospace sheet metal practices and pressure vessel build/testing
• Calm, systematic troubleshooting under schedule pressure and changing priorities

Compensation

$50.00 – $60.00 per hour (San Francisco Bay Area base range; excludes bonus and benefits)

If your requirements fall outside this range, we still encourage you to apply.

Equal Opportunity & Inclusive Hiring

You do not need to meet every listed qualification to apply. We value diverse perspectives and are committed to building an inclusive team.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

San Francisco applicants will be considered in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

This position is subject to U.S. export control regulations, including ITAR and EAR. Employment is contingent upon the candidates status as a U.S. Person or ability to obtain an appropriate export license, along with any required background checks, and (where applicable) eligibility for government contracts or security clearance.