(Fastwater Staffing) Lead R&D Tech - Quincy, MA | On-site

HIKINEX

1d • $41 - $54 • Onsite

About The Position

The Contract Lead R&D Technician facilitates daily workflow and task allocation for technical builds, setting operational priorities and assigning tasks based on changing project needs. This hands-on role supports the assembly, integration, and troubleshooting of complex AUVs and electromechanical systems while adhering to safety protocols. The contractor serves as a primary technical point of contact, regularly interfacing with engineering teams to provide technical feedback and progress updates and coordinating with production stakeholders to meet milestones.

Requirements

• At least 7 years of electronics experience in an R&D or prototyping environment.
• Ability to independently execute complex R&D tasks with minimal direct oversight.
• Extensive experience building and troubleshooting cables, harnesses, and connectors.
• Proficiency in soldering, crimping, and mechanical cable assembly.
• Working knowledge of the product life cycle from NPI to scaled production and of LEAN manufacturing principles.
• Strong organization, dependability, attention to detail, and written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with reading and interpreting electrical schematics and component drawings.
• Hands-on experience with electronics test equipment, including power supplies, electronic loads, oscilloscopes, function generators, DAQ systems, and measurement sensors.
• Ability to adapt quickly between tasks and balance concurrent technical priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with machining, sheet metal fabrication, and 3D printing.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional engineering and manufacturing teams.
• Experience testing items ranging from small integrated electronics assemblies to large vehicle structures.
• Experience building test setups and executing test procedures to validate design iterations.
• Prior material handling or hoisting experience, or a Massachusetts state hoisting license for overhead gantry or rigging.
• Prior experience in subsea robotics, including AUVs, UUVs, or marine and underwater systems.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to all stages of vehicle product development and manufacturing, providing technical feedback to the engineering team.
• Build, integrate, and test complex electromechanical assemblies for AUV systems.
• Use hand tools, assembly tooling, and general manufacturing equipment.
• Complete daily transactions in computer production systems, including MES, NetSuite, and JIRA.
• Provide technical guidance, knowledge transfer, and process support to operators.
• Maintain momentum toward on-time milestone completion.
• Manage multiple priorities, organize build workflows, and meet project deadlines.
• Interface with the Production Supervisor and coordinate day-to-day technical tasks with other technicians for production and delivery of commercial and development products.
• Apply advanced hardware assembly, troubleshooting, and repair skills during manufacturing operations.
• Coordinate operator workflow priorities to support on-time delivery goals and project schedules.
• Participate in 5S and continuous improvement initiatives and suggest ways to optimize assembly processes.
• Foster collaboration, technical excellence, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional support.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed