R&D Technician

Front Door Defense; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Hgen seeks an R&D Technician in Los Angeles to build and test electrolyzer stack prototypes and supporting hardware for pilot systems. You will assemble prototypes, construct test stands, and fabricate mechanical structures for pilot plants, while wiring, piping, and harnessing electrical systems.

You’ll diagnose issues and work with engineers to meet tight specs in a fast-paced startup setting. With 2+ years in hardware assembly or related roles, you will thrive on hands-on problem solving,

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• 2+ years in hardware assembly, test, maintenance, or related roles.
• Experience with mechanical piping, instrumentation wiring, and electrical wiring/harnessing.
• Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems and their integration.

Responsibilities

• Prototype Assembly: Build and assemble electrolyzer stack prototypes with high precision.
• Test Stand Construction: Build and maintain test stand hardware including wiring and piping.
• Mechanical Structure Fabrication: Create structures for large-scale prototypes and pilot systems.
• Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Diagnose and repair issues to keep systems safe and reliable.
• Collaboration: Work with engineers to meet design specs and safety standards.
• Documentation: Record build processes and test results for traceability.

Skills

Hardware assembly

Test stand construction

Electrical wiring

Mechanical piping

Wiring harnessing

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Reading schematics

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Test instruments

Job description

R&D Technician

Build and test electrolyzer stack prototypes and supporting test-stand hardware for pilot systems

Location: Los Angeles, California

About The Role

Hgen's mission is to achieve a clean and sustainable energy future through tackling emissions in hard-to-decarbonize industries. By enabling cheap and abundant clean hydrogen, Hgen aims to help decarbonize the more than 10% of global emissions that are best addressed with hydrogen. Learn more about why clean hydrogen is critical for achieving zero-emissions.

As a R&D Technician, you will play a crucial role in building the prototypes and test stands that form the backbone of our cutting-edge hydrogen production technology. You will use your hands-on skills to build and test electrolyzer stacks, construct mechanical structures, and build test stand hardware, including mechanical piping, instrumentation wiring, and electrical systems. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment, where your contributions will have a direct impact on the development and scaling of breakthrough clean energy technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Prototype Assembly: Build and assemble electrolyzer stack prototypes, ensuring high standards of precision and quality.
• Test Stand Construction: Construct and maintain test stand hardware, including mechanical piping, instrumentation wiring, and electrical wiring and harnessing.
• Mechanical Structure Fabrication: Build and assemble mechanical structures for large-scale prototypes, including the pilot electrolyzer system and balance of plant.
• Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Diagnose and repair any issues with prototypes and test stands, ensuring that all systems operate safely and efficiently.
• Collaboration: Work closely with engineers to understand design requirements and ensure that builds meet technical specifications and safety standards.
• Documentation: Accurately record build processes, modifications, and test results to support ongoing R&D efforts and ensure traceability.

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• 2+ years of experience in hardware assembly, test, maintenance, or related roles.
• Experience with mechanical piping, instrumentation wiring, and electrical wiring/harnessing.
• Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems and their integration.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience working with prototypes or in an R&D environment, particularly in energy or related industries.
• Proficiency in using hand tools, power tools, and test instruments to build and assemble complex systems.
• Experience with high-pressure fluid and gas systems, and the ability to work safely in these environments.
• Familiarity with reading and interpreting engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documents.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot mechanical and electrical systems.

Professional Qualities

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality workmanship.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to collaborate closely with engineers and other team members.
• Enthusiasm for hands-on work and a passion for contributing to the development of clean energy technology.