Lead Technician

Job Title: Lead R&D Technician Job Description The Lead R&D Technician supports the development, integration, testing, and validation of advanced autonomous and defense technologies in a highly technical, fast-paced environment. This role works directly with engineering teams on prototype development, product improvement, and new technology introduction, serving as a critical bridge between engineering and manufacturing. The position focuses on hands-on build work, troubleshooting complex electromechanical systems, and adapting to evolving designs throughout the product development lifecycle. Responsibilities Build and modify prototype systems and assemblies, transforming engineering concepts into functional products. Work directly from engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation to execute builds and engineering changes accurately. Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical issues, performing root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions. Support product testing and validation activities, including data collection, instrumentation setup, and participation in design iterations. Document build processes, test results, and engineering changes in a clear and organized manner to support repeatability and continuous improvement. Collaborate closely with engineering teams to improve product performance, manufacturability, and reliability based on hands-on feedback. Support low-volume and prototype manufacturing activities, including electromechanical assembly and integration of complex systems. Execute engineering build activities for advanced autonomous and maritime defense technologies in a less structured R&D environment. Contribute to engineering change implementation by updating builds, wiring, and assemblies in line with new design requirements. Participate in cross-functional collaboration with engineering, production, and operations teams to support product development and scale-up. Identify opportunities to improve build processes, test methods, and product designs through a strong troubleshooting and continuous improvement mindset. Essential Skills At least 5+ years of hands-on experience building, modifying, and integrating prototypes or complex electromechanical systems. Minimum 5+ years of troubleshooting and diagnostics experience, including mechanical, electrical, and system-level problem solving. At least 5+ years of experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation. Minimum 3+ years of electromechanical assembly experience working on products containing both mechanical and electrical components. At least 3+ years of experience supporting engineering or R&D teams in environments such as prototype, aerospace, robotics, defense, autonomous systems, or advanced manufacturing. Strong troubleshooting mindset with the ability to identify root causes and resolve technical issues with minimal direction. High mechanical aptitude and comfort working on complex, highly technical systems. Ability to operate as a self-starter, working independently while maintaining accountability for quality and deadlines. Comfort working in a less structured environment with changing priorities and evolving product designs. Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality in builds, documentation, and testing activities. Effective communication skills for collaborating with engineers, technicians, and cross-functional technical teams. Demonstrated ability to work from engineering drawings, troubleshoot independently, build prototypes, and operate effectively in R&D settings. Experience with electromechanical assembly, wiring, and prototype manufacturing in support of product development and testing. Familiarity with test and validation activities, including data collection and instrumentation. Additional Skills & Qualifications Preferred experience in aerospace, defense, robotics, autonomous systems, advanced manufacturing, or prototype development environments. Experience supporting engineering teams through prototype builds, product development, testing, and validation activities. Background working in engineering labs, R&D environments, or low-volume/custom manufacturing settings. Familiarity with mechanical and electrical troubleshooting, engineering change implementation, and design iteration processes. Technical education is preferred but not required, such as an associates degree, technical certification, military technical training, or equivalent hands-on experience in Engineering Technology, Electronics, Mechatronics, Robotics, or a related field. Electromechanical assembly experience, including complex system integration and build execution. Test and validation experience, including instrumentation setup and data collection. Robotics or automation experience, particularly with autonomous or advanced technology systems. Experience in aerospace or defense industry environments supporting advanced technology products. Familiarity with CAD drawings and the ability to work with engineering models and design documentation. Instrumentation and data collection experience supporting product testing and validation. Soldering, PCB work, cable harness and wiring harness assembly, and general wiring experience. Prototype manufacturing experience, including low-volume builds and custom assemblies. Military technical Background or equivalent hands-on technical training. Natural curiosity and passion for building, troubleshooting, and improving complex products. Collaborative approach when working with engineering and production teams to solve problems and improve designs. Why Work Here? You join a fast-growing technology environment focused on advanced autonomous and maritime defense systems, where your hands-on expertise directly supports national security and innovation. You work on cutting-edge products and next-generation manufacturing and testing capabilities, collaborating closely with engineering, production, and operations teams in a highly innovative setting. You benefit from competitive compensation, long-term career growth potential, and the possibility of transitioning from contract to hire. You also have the unique opportunity to contribute to the expansion of a modern maritime manufacturing initiative, helping to scale a state-of-the-art facility and influence how new technologies move from concept to production. Work Environment You work in a fast-paced, high-growth manufacturing and technology environment focused on advanced autonomous and maritime defense systems. You collaborate daily with engineers, technicians, and production teams on production, integration, testing, and troubleshooting activities for complex electromechanical products. The role is highly hands-on, involving prototype assembly, wiring, instrumentation, and support of low-volume manufacturing and R&D builds. The setting encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and continuous improvement, giving you the freedom to identify enhancements and contribute directly to product development. You operate in a facility that is in a significant growth phase, particularly at the Quonset operation, providing exposure to cutting-edge technologies and modern manufacturing processes. The environment values adaptability, technical curiosity, and a proactive mindset, with a focus on innovation and support for national defense and maritime advancement. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Providence, RI. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $41.00 - $54.00/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 Type This is a fully onsite position in Providence,RI. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Oct 19, 2026. About Aerotek Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools. Aerotek