Hardware Technician – Autonomy Data Systems

Zipline•South San Francisco, CA

5h•Onsite

About The Position

We’re looking for a highly capable, hands-on Hardware Technician to join Zipline’s Autonomy Data team. This role sits at the center of our autonomy development pipeline—building and maintaining the specialized hardware platforms that collect the real-world data our aircraft depend on to operate safely. You’ll own a fleet of custom-built, multi-modal data collection systems deployed on aircraft across the U.S. and globally. These platforms operate day and night, in diverse and challenging environments, capturing the data that powers our perception and autonomy stack. We’re looking for a versatile builder and problem-solver. Someone who can design, assemble, debug, and continuously improve complex electromechanical systems, and who thrives in fast-moving, high-stakes test environments. You’ll grow into a critical bridge between engineering and operations by supporting field deployments, training operators, and driving execution during complex, high-visibility test campaigns.

Requirements

2–5+ years of hands-on experience in hardware integration, prototyping, or technician roles (robotics, aerospace, automotive, or similar)
Strong mechanical aptitude: system integration, precision assembly, and fabrication
Solid electronics fundamentals: harnessing, crimping, soldering, multimeter use
Comfort working with Linux systems, firmware flashing, and basic networking
Proven ability to debug complex electromechanical systems methodically
High attention to detail and a strong sense of ownership in safety-critical environments
Excellent organization and documentation habits
Ability to operate independently and adapt in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Nice To Haves

Experience with drones or airborne systems
Familiarity with perception sensors (cameras, LiDAR, radar)
CAD experience (NX, SolidWorks, Fusion 360)
FAA Part 107 (or willingness to obtain)

Responsibilities

Own a Fleet of Critical Hardware
Maintain and continuously improve a fleet of airborne data collection systems
Diagnose and resolve issues across mechanical, electrical, sensor, and networking domains
Drive reliability improvements through design iteration, component selection, and process refinement
Ensure systems are always mission-ready
Support Flight Test & Data Collection
Troubleshoot issues in real time alongside engineers, operators, and pilots
Ensure safe, reliable operation of safety-critical systems
Prepare and validate hardware for lab and field deployments
Support flight tests locally and occasionally in the field (including Bay Area and limited travel)
Build & Integrate Advanced Test Systems
Design, assemble, and bring up custom data collection platforms combining mechanical, electrical, and compute systems
Validate performance and ensure data quality
Integrate sensors including cameras, LiDAR, radar, GNSS, and onboard compute
Build wiring harnesses, perform firmware flashing, and execute system bring-up
Documentation & Process Development
Improve build, test, and deployment processes to scale operations
Develop data collection methods and onboard new contract pilots
Create clear assembly guides and troubleshooting workflows
Maintain part inventories and configuration tracking