ModalAI, Inc. Drone Assembly Technician San Diego, CA · Full time Company website

We are looking for a highly motivated, proactive technician who likes building things with their hands to assemble our drones on the production floor. You will put drones together from frames, motors, boards, cables and cameras, following step-by-step build instructions, and check that each one is built right before it moves on.

About ModalAI, Inc.

ModalAIĀ® accelerates autonomy by providing innovators with U.S.-manufactured robot and drone perception and communications systems. As a Blue UAS Framework manufacturer, we develop best-in-class autopilot and computing hardware to enable the next generation of smaller, smarter, and safer drones and robots. Robot integrators, ranging from enterprise to government, use our autopilots to accelerate autonomy across several industries. Our team of industry-leading experts in software, hardware, and mechanical engineering is passionate about technology and is shaping the future of U.S.-based drone and robot autonomy.

Description

Essential Functions

Drone assembly

  • Build drones from start to finish: mount motors, arms, flight boards, cameras, radios and batteries on the frame
  • Follow written build instructions, pictures and checklists step by step
  • Use hand and power tools (screwdrivers, hex drivers, torque drivers, crimpers, wire strippers) correctly
  • Keep track of small parts, screws and serial numbers for each build

Wiring and soldering

  • Solder wires and connectors to boards and motors
  • Cut, strip, crimp and route cables so they are neat, secure and clear of moving parts
  • Fix or redo connections that don't pass inspection

Checks and quality

  • Run simple power-on and function checks from a checklist (lights, motors spin the right way, camera and radio connect)
  • Look over each finished drone for loose screws, pinched wires and missing parts before it moves on
  • Set aside any drone that fails and tell the lead or engineer what went wrong
  • Record build and check results on the traveler or in the build log

Workstation and team

  • Keep the bench clean and organized and follow ESD (static) and battery safety rules
  • Adjust as build steps change with new designs
  • Suggest easier or faster ways to build, and help train new team members once experienced


Qualifications

Required:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Hands-on experience building or assembling things (drones, RC vehicles, PCs, electronics kits, bikes, or production line work)
  • Some soldering experience
  • Comfortable with basic hand tools
  • Able to follow written instructions and diagrams carefully
  • Good attention to detail and pride in quality work


Preferred Qualifications (Not Required):

  • Has built or repaired their own drone (FPV or multi-rotor)
  • Electronics assembly or production line experience
  • Experience following ESD (static) safety practices
  • Has flown drones; FAA Part 107 certificate a plus
  • 3D printing experience


Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds
  • Sit or stand at a workbench for most of the shift
  • Steady hands and good close-up vision for small parts, screws and solder joints


Benefits

  • Overtime and bonus opportunities
  • 401(k) with employer contribution
  • Health/Dental/Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off


ModalAI is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state (FEHA), or local laws.