R&D Technician

About Gridware

Gridware is a San Francisco-based technology company dedicated to protecting and enhancing the electrical grid. We pioneered a groundbreaking new class of grid management called active grid response (AGR), focused on monitoring the electrical, physical, and environmental aspects of the grid that affect reliability and safety. Gridware's advanced Active Grid Response platform uses high-precision sensors to detect potential issues early, enabling proactive maintenance and fault mitigation. This comprehensive approach helps improve safety, reduce outages, and ensure the grid operates efficiently. The company is backed by climate-tech and Silicon Valley investors. For more information, please visit 

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About the role

The Physical R&D team is seeking a technician with strong electrical and mechanical intuition to join our team. In this role, you will be instrumental in accelerating our scientific and engineering work. You will be responsible for creating the infrastructure we use for our experiments, building technology demonstrations to showcase our novel technology, and collecting data to support new technology development. If you are a hands-on builder/maker/DIYer who loves to tinker, solve physical problems, and see your creations make a real-world impact then this role is for you.

Responsibilities

• Build & Maintain:
  Fabricate, assemble, and maintain physical infrastructure (fixtures, equipment) for R&D experiments and technology demonstrations with minimal direction. Experiments range in scale from benchtop to a full-scale electrical test grid.
• Prototype:
  Create custom prototypes and assemble experimental setups, involving both mechanical and electrical assembly. Develop and construct robust fixtures and equipment for showcasing Gridware's technology to internal and external stakeholders.
• Test & Collect Data:
  Diligently follow data collection procedures to gather and accurately record experimental data.
• Manage Lab:
  Maintain the R&D lab space, procure components and equipment, and setup new equipment as needed.

Required Skills

• Associate degree or higher in Electronics Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be considered.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience as an electronic, mechanical, or assembly technician.
• Ability to travel between our test locations in the SF Bay Area: Richmond, San Francisco, and other Bay Area location.
• Can frequently move, lift, push, or pull objects weighing up to
  50 pounds
  . Occasionally move or position objects weighing up to
  75 pounds
  with assistance. Can frequently stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, or crouch.
• Electrical Fabrication:
  Proficiency in electronic assembly, debugging, and safety practices. This includes high-quality soldering and the ability to use test instruments like DMMs.
• Mechanical Fabrication:
  Experience building large mechanical fixtures using various materials (e.g., plastics, wood, metal) and fabrication processes (e.g., sawing, drilling, welding).
• Mechanical Intuition:
  Strong intuition for mechanical system failure and a proven ability to fabricate robust structures that can withstand operational loads. You can use this intuition to fabricate fixtures with little direction.
• Technical Literacy:
  Ability to read and interpret schematics and drawings for both electrical circuits and mechanical systems.
• Detail-Oriented:
  Excellent problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Data Collection:
  Demonstrable ability to follow procedures and use good documentation practices to collect and record data.
• Independence:
  Diligent and trustworthy, with the ability to manage tasks and get things done independently.

Bonus Skills

• Basic machining skills (e.g., mill, lathe).
• Valid and current forklift operator certification, or ability to obtain certification within 30 days).
• More than one year experience operating a forklift in a manufacturing or warehouse environment. Strong understanding of and adherence to all relevant safety protocols and procedures.
• Experience with 3D printing and rapid prototyping.
• Experience fabricating prototypes or systems designed for long-term outdoor use.
• Experience executing scripts for data collection in languages like Python and Labview.

This describes the ideal candidate; many of us have picked up this expertise along the way. Even if you meet only part of this list, we encourage you to apply

Benefits

Health, Dental & Vision (Gold and Platinum with some providers plans fully covered)

Paid parental leave

Alternating day off (every other Monday)

"Off the Grid", a two week per year paid break for all employees.

Commuter allowance

Company-paid training