Field Operations Engineer

Picogrid, Inc.; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in defense technology is seeking a Field Operations Engineer to join their hardware engineering team. This role involves working on advanced unmanned systems, overseeing product configuration, and ensuring successful deployments across the country. Candidates should have a strong background in network engineering and electrical systems, with a focus on collaboration and innovation. The position offers competitive compensation, including stock options and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

401(k) with employer matching

Full health coverage (medical, dental, and vision insurance)

Relocation assistance

Unlimited PTO and 11 paid holidays

Paid parental leave for both parents

Lunch provided in-office

Remote/hybrid-friendly work environment

Unique office with quality coffee, snacks, and craft beer

Qualifications

• No degree required; preferred expertise in related fields.
• 4+ years of experience with IT, electrical/mechanical assembly.

Responsibilities

• Travel 50-70% of time for equipment installations and servicing.
• Configure network equipment and write Python and bash scripts.

Skills

Network Engineering

IT

Electrical Engineering

Electronics Engineering

Computer Science

Linux

Bash

Productivity Tools

Testing Tools

Job description

Picogrid receives its first order from a new $1B Space Force program.

Picogrid envisions a future where every system, from the smallest sensors to next-generation fighter jets, can collaborate autonomously to create a safer and more prosperous world for all.

Today, we are at the forefront of American defense technology, developing a unified platform that integrates fragmented technologies—such as sensors, cameras, radar, and drones—into sophisticated mission systems.

Our technology is deployed globally, supporting customers including the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, CAL FIRE, PG&E, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, and many others.

About this role

Picogrid is seeking a Field Operations Engineer to help build the next generation of American defense technology. As a core member of Picogrid’s hardware engineering team, you will help define our engineering culture and product roadmap.

As a Field Operations Engineer, you will work on the PCBAs and electrical systems powering Picogrid's current (e.g., Lander, Helios) and future (unannounced) hardware platforms, enabling the deployment of unmanned and autonomous systems into operations around the world.

You will own the product configuration and testing processes from initial design to automation for large-scale production. You will work alongside Picogrid’s world-class engineering team, coming from companies including SpaceX, Google, Twitter, and more.

Qualifications and Competencies:

• No degree required. Preferred expertise related to Network Engineering, IT, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Growth mindset, desire to learn, results-oriented focus.
• Proficiency in network equipment configuration.
• Proficiency in harnessing assembly and installation.
• Proficiency in interpreting and applying design specifications, datasheets, and technical drawings.
• Familiarity with Linux.
• Familiarity with command line interface, bash.
• Proficiency in leveraging modern tools to enhance productivity.
• Strong knowledge of networks, electrical, and harnessing systems.
• Experience with testing tools such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, DAQs, etc.

Responsibilities:

Travel to unique parts of the country. Work with cutting-edge technology in a fast-paced, highly iterative engineering culture. See your work's impact firsthand as you create value for customers in every project.

• Configure network equipment, flash circuit boards, configure Linux machines by running bash scripts in R&D and field settings.
• Travel 50-70% of your time across interesting and unique parts of the country to perform equipment installations and servicing.
• Write Python and bash scripts to automate configuration processes.
• Collaborate with Electrical, Embedded, and Software Engineers during design stages.
• Prepare and maintain detailed design documentation for your work.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.
• Support prototype development and perform hands-on testing to validate design performance.
• Focus on quality, seeking improvements that speed up and simplify processes.
• Develop jigs and stations to increase speed and yield of manufacturing.
• Respect workplace safety guidelines and take LV DC safety seriously.

Experiences we're especially excited to see:

• 4+ years of experience with IT, electrical/mechanical assembly
• Military, aerospace, or IC background
• Track record of leadership demonstrated through management, public service, community organizing, or similar experience
• Base salary range: $70,000 - $120,000 per year. Base salary is just one part of your total compensation package at Picogrid.
• Significant stock options with high potential upside as an early-stage company
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Full health coverage (medical, dental, and vision insurance)
• Relocation assistance provided
• Unlimited PTO (two-week minimum) and 11 paid holidays per year
• Paid parental leave for both parents
• Lunch provided when working in-office and a fully stocked kitchenette
• Remote/hybrid-friendly work environment
• Unique office in downtown El Segundo, CA, stocked with quality coffee, snacks, and craft beer

Interview Process

• You apply
• Interview with our engineering team about your work experience
• On-site technical interview: Short project working alongside Picogrid engineers

The unified platform for unmanned systems