UAV Build & Test Technician

Grid Aero • San Leandro, CA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

Grid.aero is a VC-backed aviation startup tackling complex challenges in both defense and commercial markets. We are focused on solving real-world problems that will shape the future of the industry. Led by aerospace veterans and supported by leading venture firms, Grid is at the forefront of developing autonomous systems that will revolutionize how goods move through the skies. Be part of a fast-growing, high-impact startup from day one. At Grid, your work will shape critical industries, driving innovation at the intersection of national security and global commerce.

We are seeking a versatile, hands-on Build & Test Technician to join our team in developing the next generation of autonomous cargo aircraft. This isn't a "sit-at-a-desk" job; you will be the bridge between engineering designs and a flying reality. You’ll spend your time at our San Leandro HQ fabricating airframes and wiring systems, then transition to our Merced flight-test site to see your work take to the skies. This position requires 2 to 3 days a week travel to Atwater Castle Airport. While we don't require an A&P license, we do require the precision, discipline, and mechanical intuition of a master builder. If you have a deep understanding of mechanical assembly—whether you’ve built a kit plane (like a Van's RV), restored a classic car, or built combat robots—you’ll fit right in.

Requirements

• A.S. or B.S. in Mechanical/Electronics Technology, Aviation Maintenance, or a related technical field; or 5+ years of experience in R&D technician or similar roles.
• Expert-level comfort with pneumatic rivet guns, bucking bars, Clekos, and precision measuring tools.
• Ability to read schematics and build clean, robust harnesses that can handle the vibrations of flight.
• Proficiency using a manual lathe, mill, or band saw to create custom brackets or fixtures.
• Experience with large-scale RC aircraft or industrial drone hardware.

Nice To Haves

• Specific experience with Van’s RV-series or other all-metal kit aircraft
• Basic knowledge of composite repair (fiberglass/carbon fiber)
• Prior military experience as a structures (Airframe) or avionics technician.

Responsibilities

• Sheet Metal Fabrication: Drill, deburr, dimple, and rivet aluminum airframe components, taking responsibility for the structural integrity of the vehicle.
• Systems Integration: Build and install high-quality wiring harnesses, utilizing proficiency in soldering, crimping, and routing to ensure clean, reliable connections.
• Field Operations: Act as the primary hardware support during flight tests in Merced, including pre-flight inspections, rapid "field-fix" troubleshooting, and vehicle recovery.
• Fleet Maintenance: Perform routine inspections and upgrades on our test fleet to ensure every bird is flight-ready.
• Prototyping & Machining: Use manual lathes, mills, and band saws to create custom brackets or fixtures as needed by the engineering team.
• Shop Stewardship: Maintain expert-level comfort with pneumatic rivet guns, bucking bars, and precision measuring tools while managing hardware inventory (AN/MS bolts, rivets).
• Collaborate on "Calm Air" Windows: Maintain extreme reliability for 6:00 AM starts in Merced to hit critical flight test windows.

Benefits

• All mileage for trips to the Merced test site is fully reimbursed.
• For early-morning test days, we provide and pay for hotel accommodations in Merced the night before.
• Receive a significant equity stake and help build the future of Grid.aero.
• Work alongside experienced aerospace founders and grow with the company as a key technical leader.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree