Test Technician

Test TechnicianThe Test Technician plays a key role in the mechanical assembly, testing, and troubleshooting of Small Unmanned Aerial System products within a manufacturing environment. This position follows released drawings, assembly instructions, and work orders to build high-quality ground control equipment and air vehicles, while collaborating closely with production and engineering teams to improve processes and documentation.ResponsibilitiesPerform mechanical assembly of subassemblies using hand tools and power tools, following released drawings, assembly instructions, and work orders.Complete final assembly of ground control equipment and air vehicles to established quality standards.Test and troubleshoot subassemblies and final assemblies to ensure proper functionality and performance.Follow work order protocols and accurately complete all work order paperwork as tasks are performed.Collaborate with production technicians and engineering staff to correct and improve assembly documentation and processes.Conduct in-process quality checks to confirm that assembled items meet high-quality standards and specifications.Train other technicians on product builds and established assembly procedures as needed.Work with manufacturing engineers to improve assembly efficiency, enhance product quality, reduce manufacturing costs, and validate released assembly and fabrication documentation.Support new product development efforts by working with engineering when documentation and assembly instructions are not yet finalized.Follow established procedures on routine work and seek instruction and guidance for new or unfamiliar assignments.Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with safety and ESD practices.Work on semi-routine assignments, exercising analytical and problem-solving skills to resolve assembly and test issues.Use soldering techniques, wiring, and wire harness assembly as part of daily assembly and test duties.Utilize tools such as crimpers, drills, taps, torque wrenches, power tools, air tools, multimeters, and oscilloscopes during assembly and test activities.Read and interpret a variety of instructions in written, oral, diagram, blueprint, schematic, or schedule form.Communicate effectively with team members and engineering staff to share information, report issues, and support continuous improvement.Take ownership of work products and ensure tasks are completed accurately, on time, and in line with company standards.Support a fast-paced, deadline-driven production environment where small teams share a broad variety of duties.Perform other duties as assigned to support manufacturing, testing, and production goals.Essential SkillsHigh school diploma or GED equivalent.Minimum of 12 years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment in electronics or electro-mechanical assembly and test, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.Hands-on experience with hand tools including crimpers, drills, taps, torque wrenches, power tools, and air tools.Ability to perform soldering as part of assembly functions and duties.Good manual dexterity for precise mechanical and electrical assembly work.Basic computer operation skills for accessing work orders, documentation, and data entry.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve assembly and test issues.High attention to detail to ensure assemblies meet specifications and quality standards.Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, blueprint, schematic, or schedule form.Experience with electronics, troubleshooting, soldering, and use of soldering tools.Experience in electrical and mechanical assembly, including wiring, wire harness assembly, and wire stripping.At least 1 year of experience with hand tools, assembly, wire harness, and crimping, including experience from electronics or electro-mechanical assembly (medical device assembly experience is acceptable).Additional Skills & QualificationsVocational training in electronics is preferred.Solder certification is preferred.Ability to read blueprints and electrical schematics is desired.Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing methodologies is desired.Familiarity with safety and ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) practices is desired.Certifications such as IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, and IPC/WHMA-A-620 are a plus but not required.Experience with wire harness assembly, wire stripping, and crimping is beneficial.Experience with medical device assembly, electrical systems, and schematic interpretation is an advantage.Ability to use test and measurement equipment such as multimeters and oscilloscopes.Strong oral and written communication skills to interact effectively with colleagues across the organization.Ability to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment where small teams share a wide range of responsibilities.Demonstrated initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives.Willingness to take ownership and responsibility for current and past work products.Commitment to learning from mistakes and continuously improving personal, team, and company performance.Focus on teamwork and collaboration, placing the success of the team above individual interests.Why Work Here?Employees benefit from a comprehensive total rewards package that supports health, financial security, and work-life balance. Available offerings include medical, dental, and vision coverage, critical illness, accident, and hospital plans, and voluntary life and AD&D insurance for employees and dependents. Team members can participate in a 401(k) retirement plan with both pre-tax and post-tax contribution options, as well as short- and long-term disability coverage and a Health Spending Account (HSA). Transportation benefits and an Employee Assistance Program provide additional support. Generous paid time off, including vacation and sick leave, helps employees recharge and maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life.Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a manufacturing facility with a structured 9/80 work schedule, providing every other Friday off while requiring openness to occasional Saturday work as needed. The standard workweek is Monday through Friday on first shift, with typical hours around 5:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for four days and an 8-hour day on the working Friday, totaling 80 hours over two weeks. The environment is fast-paced and deadline-driven, with small teams collaborating closely across a broad range of duties. Work is hands-on and involves regular use of mechanical and electrical assembly tools, including crimpers, drills, taps, torque wrenches, power tools, air tools, soldering equipment, multimeters, and oscilloscopes. Employees are expected to maintain a clean and safe workspace, follow established procedures, and adhere to safety and ESD practices while working on semi-routine assignments and supporting new product development.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Petaluma, CA.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $21.00 - $28.00/hr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Petaluma,CA.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Oct 19, 2026.