ABOUT THE ASSIGNMENT The Contract Lead R&D Technician facilitates daily workflow and task allocation for technical builds, setting operational priorities and assigning tasks based on dynamic project needs. This hands-on role actively supports the assembly, integration, and troubleshooting of complex AUVs and electromechanical systems while rigorously adhering to all safety protocols. The contractor serves as a primary technical point of contact, interfacing regularly with engineering teams to provide vital technical feedback and progress updates, and aligning with production stakeholders to meet milestone requirements. WHAT YOU’LL DO · Contribute to all stages of the vehicle product development and manufacturing life cycle, providing technical feedback to the engineering team. · Build, integrate, and test complex electro-mechanical assemblies into world-class AUV systems. · Apply competency in the use of hand tools, assembly tooling, and general manufacturing equipment. · Complete necessary transactions in computer production systems (MES, NetSuite, JIRA) on a daily basis. · Provide technical guidance, knowledge transfer, and process support to operators as needed. · Maintain focus and momentum to drive milestones to on-time completion. · Manage multiple priorities, organize build workflows, and meet scheduled project deadlines. · Interface with the Production Supervisor and collaborate with other technicians, providing day-to-day technical task coordination for the production and delivery of various commercial and development products. · Apply advanced knowledge and skills in hardware assembly, troubleshooting, and repair during manufacturing operations. · Coordinate workflow priorities for operators to achieve target on-time delivery goals and ensure project milestones stay on schedule. · Participate in 5S and continuous improvement initiatives; provide constructive feedback on ways to optimize the assembly process. · Foster a collaborative working environment that supports technical excellence, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional support. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS · 7+ years of electronics experience in an R&D/prototyping environment. · Demonstrated ability to execute complex R&D tasks independently 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 (NPI to scaled production) and LEAN manufacturing principles. · Highly organized, dependable, and detail-oriented with strong written and verbal communication skills. · Familiarity reading and interpreting electrical schematics and component drawings. · Hands-on experience with standard electronics test equipment (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. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS · Experience with machining, sheet metal fabrication, and 3D printing. · Demonstrated 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/hoisting experience or MA state hoisting license (overhead gantry, rigging). · Prior experience in subsea robotics (AUVs, UUVs, or marine/underwater systems). Contract Rate: • $41.00 – $54.00/hr (dependent on experience)