Solder / PCB Rework Technician (Independent Contractor)

LeoLabs; Menlo Park (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

LeoLabs is seeking skilled Solder / PCB Rework Technicians for project-based, independent contractor work at our Menlo Park, CA headquarters. You will support production of hardware and radar systems, performing hand soldering, PCB rework, and inspection across electronic and RF components.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in electronics assembly, with IPC workmanship familiarity, and the ability to work independently to meet production timelines in a dynamic startup environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant experience in electronics assembly, soldering, or PCB rework.
• Demonstrated experience with fine-pitch hand soldering and component-level rework.
• Ability to read assembly drawings, work instructions, BOMs, and basic engineering documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and workmanship in a production environment.
• Ability to work independently and meet production deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Perform hand soldering of through-hole and surface mount electronic components
• Execute PCB rework, component replacement, wire modification, and blue-wire changes per work instructions or engineering direction
• Inspect solder joints, component placement, and workmanship to ensure compliance with quality standards
• Support board-level assembly, touch-up, repair, and prototype modification activities
• Identify defects, damage, or nonconformances and escalation appropriately
• Maintain clean and organized work areas and handle ESD-sensitive hardware properly
• Support production schedules by completing work on time and communicating blockers

Skills

Soldering

PCB rework

Electronics assembly

Inspection

Production deadlines

Tools

Microscope work

ESD handling equipment

Coaxial assembly tools

Job description

Why LeoLabs?

At LeoLabs, we’re building the living map of activity in space. Through our proprietary global radar network and AI-enabled analytics platform, we collect millions of measurements daily on more than 25,000 objects in low Earth orbit (LEO). Our radar-powered intelligence protects billions in assets, monitors adversarial behavior, and ensures safe operations for commercial and government missions.

We’re not just building technology, we are redefining global security, safety, and transparency in space. As orbital activity accelerates and threats grow more complex, LeoLabs is a trusted partner for Space Domain Awareness, Space Traffic Management, and Satellite Operations for top-tier space operators and allied defense organizations.

If you're looking to work on mission-critical challenges at the forefront of aerospace, national security, and AI, your impact starts here.

The Opportunity

LeoLabs is building a network of skilled Solder / PCB Rework Technicians to support ongoing and future hardware development and production needs. This is an Independent Contractor opportunity for experienced electronics assembly professionals interested in project-based work supporting advanced radar systems and space technology.

Our Hardware Engineering team designs, develops, manufactures, and deploys advanced radar systems which provide persistent orbital intelligence to our customers worldwide. As project needs arise, contractors may support production builds, prototype assembly, PCB rework, inspection, and repair activities across a range of electronic and RF hardware.

This is an onsite opportunity based at our headquarters in Menlo Park, CA. Work is provided on an as-needed basis, and engagement timing, scope, and duration may vary depending on business needs.

** This posting is intended to build a pipeline of qualified Independent Contractors for future project needs. Submission of an application does not guarantee immediate engagement. Contractors will be contacted as opportunities become available that match with their skills, availability, and project requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform hand soldering of through-hole and surface mount electronic components


• Execute PCB rework, component replacement, wire modification, and blue-wire changes per work instructions or engineering direction


• Inspect solder joints, component placement, and workmanship to ensure compliance with quality standards


• Support board-level assembly, touch-up, repair, and prototype modification activities


• Identify defects, damage, or nonconformances and escalation appropriately


• Maintain clean and organized work areas and handle ESD-sensitive hardware properly


• Support production schedules by completing work on time and communicating blockers

Qualifications

• Must be eligible to access export-controlled information and technology subject to U.S. export control regulations, including ITAR and EAR


• 5+ years of relevant experience in electronics assembly, soldering, or PCB rework


• Demonstrated experience with fine-pitch hand soldering and component-level rework


• Ability to read assembly drawings, work instructions, BOMs, and basic engineering documentation


• Strong attention to detail and workmanship in a production environment


• Ability to work independently and meet production deadlines

Preferred

• Experience working to IPC workmanship standards such as IPC-A-610 and/or J-STD-001


• Experience with microscope work, SMT rework, and replacement of damaged or incorrect components


• Background supporting prototype builds, engineering rework, or low-volume/high-mix production


• Familiarity with ESD controls and handling of sensitive electronic hardware


• Experience with RF hardware, coaxial assembly, or cable soldering


• Ability to thrive in a startup or rapidly evolving environment