HIKINEX

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.

· 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.

· 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.

· 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).

• $41.00 – $54.00/hr (dependent on experience)