UAV Build & Test Technician

What you'll do:

Key Qualifications:

• Education & Experience: A.S. or B.S. in Mechanical/Electronics Technology, Aviation Maintenance, or a related technical field; or 5+ years of experience in R&D technician or similar roles.
• Mechanical Mastery: Expert-level comfort with pneumatic rivet guns, bucking bars, Clekos, and precision measuring tools.
• Electrical Aptitude: Ability to read schematics and build clean, robust harnesses that can handle the vibrations of flight.
• Machine Shop Skills: Proficiency using a manual lathe, mill, or band saw to create custom brackets or fixtures.
• UAV/RC Background: Experience with large-scale RC aircraft or industrial drone hardware.
• Bonus Points: Specific experience with Van’s RV-series or other all-metal kit aircraft; basic knowledge of composite repair (fiberglass/carbon fiber); or prior military experience as a structures (Airframe) or avionics technician.
• Logistics & Support
• Location: Primarily based in San Leandro, CA , with required travel to Merced, CA .
• Travel: All mileage for trips to the Merced test site is fully reimbursed.
• Lodging: For early-morning test days, we provide and pay for hotel accommodations in Merced the night before.
• Compensation: $90k - $110k / 0.1 - 0.25% Equity
• Equal Opportunity Employer:
• Grid.aero is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
• Legal Notice:
• Grid.aero is committed to complying with U.S. export control laws. Due to the nature of our work, candidates must be U.S. persons (U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).