Hardware Engineering Technician (part-time) / On-site

Openbci; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Part time

Job summary

OpenBCI is seeking a part-time Hardware Engineering Technician to prototype and assemble electro-mechanical systems. You will operate 3D printers, prepare models, and select materials for rapid iteration, while coordinating with engineers on design concepts and FAA-style documentation.

The role emphasizes hands-on fabrication, testing, and a proactive, cross-functional mindset. You will work 20–30 hours per week, handling assembly, wiring, and troubleshooting tasks.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in electro-mechanical assembly, 3D printing, and surface-mount soldering.
• Proven ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Strong understanding of electronic principles and components.
• Excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• Experience with various 3D printing technologies (SLA, FDM, etc.).
• Familiarity with CNC machining or other fabrication methods.
• Knowledge of electronic testing and troubleshooting techniques.
• Knowledge of a wide variety of fasteners and other hardware.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs onto a table top bench and up to 20 lbs over your head.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain 3D printers to fabricate prototypes and production parts
• Prepare and optimize 3D models for printing, ensuring accuracy and functionality
• Select and configure printing materials and parameters based on project requirements
• Post-process 3D prints, including sanding, smoothing, and finishing
• Assemble and integrate complex electrical and mechanical components according to engineering drawings and specifications
• Wire harnesses and cables, ensuring proper routing and connections
• Design and build efficient firmware flashing jigs to streamline the flashing process
• Conduct functional testing of assembled units and troubleshoot any issues
• Work collaboratively with engineers to translate design concepts into physical prototypes
• Proficient with a wide range of hand and power tools
• Perform precision soldering of surface-mount components down to 0201 size on printed circuit boards
• Offer creative solutions and suggestions for improving prototype functionality and manufacturability
• Maintain and enforce a clean and organized workspace
• Document your work effectively and communicate clearly with colleagues
• Willingness to wear multiple hats. OpenBCI is still a small company. Be proactive in identifying opportunities to assist colleagues, offering expertise and support whenever needed.

Skills

Electro-mechanical assembly

3D printing

Soldering (SMT)

Reading engineering drawings

Manual dexterity

Problem solving

Tool handling

Documentation

Cross-functional collaboration

Tools

3D printers

Soldering equipment

Measuring and testing tools

CNC machining (familiar)

Job description

Hardware Engineering Technician (part-time)

At OpenBCI we are defining the future of high-quality human-computer interfaces. We are a growing team of ambitious engineers, designers, and scientists. We are on the lookout for a motivated and detail-oriented electro-mechanical engineering technician to join our team.

This is a part-time, 3-6 month opportunity with an expected commitment of 20-30 hours per week, offering flexibility and the chance to contribute your talents.

• Operate and maintain 3D printers to fabricate prototypes and production parts
• Prepare and optimize 3D models for printing, ensuring accuracy and functionality
• Select and configure printing materials and parameters based on project requirements
• Post-process 3D prints, including sanding, smoothing, and finishing

Product assembly, flashing, and testing:

• Assemble and integrate complex electrical and mechanical components according to engineering drawings and specifications
• Wire harnesses and cables, ensuring proper routing and connections
• Design and build efficient firmware flashing jigs to streamline the flashing process
• Conduct functional testing of assembled units and troubleshoot any issues

Physical prototyping:

• Work collaboratively with engineers to translate design concepts into physical prototypes
• Proficient with a wide range of hand and power tools
• Perform precision soldering of surface-mount components down to 0201 size on printed circuit boards (PCBs)
• Offer creative solutions and suggestions for improving prototype functionality and manufacturability

Additional responsibilities:

• Maintain and enforce a clean and organized workspace
• Document your work effectively and communicate clearly with colleagues
• Willingness to wear multiple hats. OpenBCI is still a small company. Be proactive in identifying opportunities to assist colleagues, offering expertise and support whenever needed. Possesses a "can-do" attitude, tackling diverse tasks not on the job description with equal enthusiasm.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in electro-mechanical assembly, 3D printing, and surface-mount soldering
• Meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality
  Proven ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
• Strong understanding of electronic principles and components
• Excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• Experience with various 3D printing technologies (SLA, FDM, etc.)
• Familiarity with CNC machining or other fabrication methods
• Knowledge of electronic testing and troubleshooting techniques
• Knowledge of a wide variety of fasteners and other hardware
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Effective communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs onto a table top bench and up to 20 lbs over your head

Preferred Skills

• Work or have worked on projects in a maker space (projects using Arduinos or PCBs)
• Have strong personal preferences about where and how tools get arranged, used, and put away in a toolbox or shop.
  Hobbyist in activities such as model building & painting, 3D printing, RC cars/planes/helicopters
• Mechanically inclined and perform maintenance on appliances, houses, or cars
• Frequent visitor of iFixit or similar teardown websites to stay up-to-date on how products are built and assembled
• Have used laser cutter machines in a professional setting