Senior Pilot Production Technician

We are a renewable energy and ocean technology company committed to rapidly developing and deploying technologies that will ensure a sustainable future by unlocking the vast energy potential of Earth’s oceans. Our focus is on capturing civilizational levels of ultra-low-cost renewable energy for applications including computing and affordable renewable fuels. The company is a public benefit corporation headquartered in Portland, Oregon, backed by leading venture capitalists, philanthropic investors, university endowments, and private investment offices. We operate as an idea meritocracy where the best ideas regularly shape the company’s direction.

About the role

Our core technology is the node, a device that produces energy in the ocean’s harshest conditions for years without human maintenance. As we prepare to build fleets of these Nodes, we are standing up a manufacturing system capable of producing hulls and internal subsystems at scale. The Pilot Production team will be the first crew focused on producing components using mass production techniques, testing, defining, refining, and documenting processes to enable rapid scaling. This team is data-driven, improvement-focused, and adaptable. The Senior Pilot Production Technician will help define how all node components are manufactured and assembled, creating and editing documentation with an emphasis on quality and clarity. You will set standards and train the team as we grow.

Responsibilities

• Complete top-level electronic assemblies and perform rework/modify PCBA (Printed Circuit Board Assembly) as needed
• Conduct acceptance testing of all electronic assemblies, including electrical, final, vibration, and thermal tests
• Assemble depth-rated enclosures and bulkhead panel wiring
• Ensure safe operation of all equipment
• Lead or assist in root cause analysis for production non-conformances
• Collaborate with Engineering and Development teams to incorporate lessons learned, track, and resolve issues
• Assist in developing testing procedures for components and assemblies
• Help develop production KPIs (Key Performance Indicators)
• Track and ensure on-time completion of tasks to meet production goals
• Assist in creating training programs and work instructions
• Lead and/or assist in workstation design and floor layout to optimize safety, quality, and efficiency
• Determine and maintain proper inventory of tooling and supplies for efficiency
• Perform high-skill soldering, component replacement, board bring-up, and low-quantity board rework
• Assist in implementing and maintaining the MES (Manufacturing Execution System)
• Establish and document preventative maintenance schedules for production equipment

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in a high-paced production environment
• Hands-on experience completing electronic assemblies, including rack build-outs, testing, and troubleshooting PCBAs
• Strong knowledge of tools and equipment used in electronics fabrication and testing (e.g., soldering iron, optical microscope, hand tools, digital multimeter, oscilloscopes, adjustable power supplies)
• Experience working with high-voltage electronics
• Working knowledge of electrostatic discharge (ESD) best practices
• Experience with vibration and thermal testing systems
• Ability to create written work instructions and documentation
• Strong understanding of production metrics, data, and goal setting
• Attention to detail
• Ability to read and interpret electrical and mechanical schematics
• Experience with factory production software (ERP, MRP, QMS, MES, etc.)
• Ability to stand for up to 10 hours per day and occasionally lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds
• Comfort working in elevated areas (e.g., ladders, platforms) with appropriate safety equipment
• Willingness to assist other teams, such as prototyping, facilities, office management, and logistics

Qualifications

• Experience leading or training team members
• Experience with 3D modeling software (e.g., NX, Fusion, SolidWorks)
• Associate’s degree or certifications in electronic engineering technology, mechatronics, or manufacturing technology
• Experience with HALT and HASS testing systems
• Experience with leak testing systems, including helium mass spectrometers

The above qualifications are desired, not required. We encourage you to apply if you are a strong candidate with some of the listed skills and experience.

Schedule

Typically 8 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Friday. Shift flexibility and potential overtime available.

Pay

Cash compensation of $40.00 - $55.00 per hour, plus equity in the company.

Benefits

• Flexible paid time off
• Health insurance: company pays 100% of gold-level PPO plan for full-time employees, their partners, and dependents
• Dental insurance: company pays 100% for full-time employees and their partners and dependents
• Vision insurance: company pays 100% for full-time employees, their partners, and dependents
• Disability insurance: company pays 100% for a policy providing long-term financial support if you become disabled
• Ability to contribute to tax-advantaged accounts, including 401(k), health FSA, and dependent care FSA
• Relocation assistance to facilitate your move to Portland, if needed

This is an on-site position located in Portland, Oregon.