Operations Technician

Field Ai; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Field AI in Irvine, CA seeks an Assembly Technician for Perception & Compute Payloads, a hands-on role responsible for assembling, integrating, and validating sensing and compute payloads. You will build electro-mechanical subsystems, integrate sensors and embedded compute platforms, perform harnessing and power system checks, and support functional testing.

This role spans mechanical assembly, electrical integration, and system-level debugging, supporting both prototype development and

Qualifications

• 2+ years hands-on technician experience in robotics, aerospace, electronics, automotive, or related electro-mechanical assembly environments.
• Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, torque drivers, and basic machine-shop tools.
• Ability to read and follow wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, and assembly instructions.
• Experience building wire harnesses and working with low-voltage electrical systems.
• Familiarity with embedded compute systems, sensors, or robotics hardware.
• Strong attention to detail, documentation discipline, and ability to deliver reliable assemblies.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in workshop, lab, or field environments.

Responsibilities

• Payload Assembly & Integration: Assemble perception payloads, integrate CPU/GPU compute modules, and route wire harnesses.
• Electrical, Power, and Communication Bring-Up: Validate power rails and data links, assist embedded system bring-up.
• System Testing & Quality Assurance: Run functional tests, document results, and support environmental and mechanical tests.
• Debugging & Continuous Improvement: Diagnose wiring faults and improve assembly processes with engineers.
• Field & Operations Support: Prepare, stage, and service payloads for real-world deployment.

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Torque drivers

Electrical harnessing

Soldering (optional)

Job description

About the Job

Operations Technician Role

As an Assembly Technician for Perception & Compute Payloads, you will be a hands‑on contributor responsible for assembling, integrating, and validating Field AI’s sensing and compute payloads. You will build electro‑mechanical subsystems, integrate sensors and embedded compute platforms, perform harnessing and power system checks, support functional testing, and ensure every payload is field‑ready and reliable. This role bridges mechanical assembly, electrical integration, and practical system‑level debugging. You will support both prototype development and production workflows while working closely with engineers to improve build processes and increase system reliability.

What You’ll Get To Do

• Payload Assembly & Integration
  • Assemble perception payloads including LiDAR, cameras, IMUs, GPS receivers, and auxiliary sensors using engineering drawings and build instructions.
  • Install and integrate CPU/GPU compute modules, carrier boards, and microcontroller‑based subsystems.
  • Build and route wire harnesses for power, high‑speed data, synchronization, and control.
  • Install mounts, enclosures, gaskets, seals, thermal components, and structural hardware.
• Electrical, Power, and Communication Bring‑Up
  • Perform continuity checks, grounding/EMI checks, and power‑rail validation.
  • Assist in bring‑up of Linux‑ or ROS2‑based embedded compute systems.
  • Validate communication links across Ethernet, USB, CAN, GMSL, and other interfaces.
  • Verify correct pinouts and harness strain‑relief practices.
• System Testing & Quality Assurance
  • Run functional tests including sensor bring‑up, calibration checks, compute boot/health tests, and network verification.
  • Document test results, deviations, rework, and repair actions with high accuracy.
  • Support environmental, vibration, mechanical alignment, and thermal characterization tests led by hardware engineers.
  • Conduct inspections for workmanship quality, mechanical stability, and electrical safety.
• Debugging & Continuous Improvement
  • Diagnose wiring faults, mechanical misalignments, intermittent communication problems, thermal faults, and other integration failures.
  • Work closely with electrical, mechanical, and compute engineers to root‑cause issues and improve build processes.
  • Provide feedback on assembly workflows, documentation clarity, and opportunities to streamline production.
• Field & Operations Support
  • Prepare, stage, and service payloads for real‑world deployment.
  • Support integration and troubleshooting activities during lab tests, field trials, and live demonstrations.
  • Perform rapid repairs and reconfigurations in dynamic testing environments.

What You Have

• 2+ years of hands‑on technician experience in robotics, aerospace, electronics, automotive, or related electro‑mechanical assembly environments.
• Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, torque drivers, and basic machine‑shop tools.
• Ability to read and follow wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, and assembly instructions.
• Experience building wire harnesses and working with low‑voltage electrical systems.
• Familiarity with embedded compute systems, sensors, or robotics hardware.
• Strong attention to detail, documentation discipline, and ability to deliver reliable assemblies.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in workshop, lab, or field environments.

The Extras That Set You Apart

• Experience working with perception systems such as LiDAR, cameras, radar, or IMUs.
• Familiarity with Linux, ROS2, or embedded system bring‑up workflows.
• Soldering, crimping, or IPC‑certified workmanship skills.
• Understanding of thermal management, weather sealing, EMI/EMC basics, and ruggedized mechanical design.
• Experience supporting prototype builds, rapid iteration cycles, or field test deployments.
• Ability to design or suggest simple fixtures or jigs to improve assembly and repeatability.
• Experience assembling complex electro‑mechanical systems, especially robotics, drones, or ruggedized field hardware.

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $60,000-$90,000. The actual offer for this position will be based on factors such as relevant experience, competencies, certifications, and how well the candidate meets the qualifications outlined above. Part of our compensation package also includes full benefits, equity, and generous time.

Field AI Onsite Work Philosophy

This is a fully onsite role; candidates will be expected to work from our Irvine, CA office. In‑person engagement is essential to our success.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.