Hardware Technician, Red 6

• Red 6 is seeking a versatile and hands-on Hardware Technician with a strong foundation in electronics and mechanical design and a passion for building and supporting complex systems
• The ideal candidate is a builder at heart—skilled with tools, unafraid of technical challenges, and capable of shifting gears between projects as needed
• Demonstrated experience building and troubleshooting complex hardware systems—optical, electrical, and mechanical
• Ability to read, interpret and produce mechanical drawings, schematics, wiring diagrams, and CAD data (SolidWorks preferred)
• Strong attention to detail, especially in delicate or optics-heavy hardware environments
• Hands-on experience using shop tools, hand tools (pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, drills, taps, etc.), soldering irons, microscopes, and benchtop instruments
• Working knowledge of both Windows and Linux environments, with confidence in hardware setup and intermediate system troubleshooting
• Familiarity and experience with scripting or basic programming (Python and C++)
• Comfortable working in an evolving R&D setting with occasionally shifting project priorities
• Experience or awareness of radio communication systems, optics, and avionics is a plus
• Must be able to occasionally support outdoor testing and integration efforts as needed
• Qualified candidates must have the ability to obtain a security clearance. This requires U.S. Citizenship

Desirable

• This role is instrumental in enabling the development of advanced AR/VR hardware used in high-performance environments
• Build, modify, and maintain hardware test fixtures and support equipment used throughout our development shop
• Interpret CAD models and technical drawings to fabricate components and assemblies
• Construct and maintain mechanical and electromechanical assemblies, sometimes requiring precise work under magnification
• Collaborate with engineers and specialists across optics, software, mechanical, and electronics teams to diagnose and resolve equipment issues
• Assist other departments in getting their tools and systems up and running, especially in early-stage R&D environments
• Troubleshoot hardware systems and subsystems, including electrical, mechanical, and optical components
• Support root cause investigations and clearly document issues for handoff to other teams
• Work within bug tracking systems like Jira to log, reproduce, and communicate findings effectively
• Support basic embedded systems integration involving microcontrollers, peripherals, communication protocols, and sensors
• Perform excellent hand soldering and electronic rework, or demonstrate the willingness and aptitude to learn
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and well-equipped prototyping and test environment
• Assist with hands-on integration efforts involving shop tools, test vehicles, and field hardware when needed
• Support work involving optical systems and laser safety protocols; contribute to test fixture design and safe operation alongside optics teams
• Engage with rapid prototyping technologies, including FDM, SLA, and SLS 3D printing
• Contribute to the design and implementation of specialized jigs, mounts, and tools to support R&D efforts
• Stay aware of the demands of high-performance aviation environments and how they influence hardware design decisions