Electromechanical Prototype Technician

Atomic Machines
Santa Clara, CA
On-site

Who this role is best for

Strong fit for hands-on engineers who build and debug multi-domain systems and thrive in collaborative R&D environments.

Best fit for

  • Candidates with 6+ years of prototyping experience in electromechanical systems
    — “6+ years of industry experience.”
  • Individuals adept at interpreting CAD models and schematics for complex builds
    — “proficiency in interpreting detailed CAD models, electrical schematics, and mechanical drawings”
  • Candidates with a background in both precision and large-scale assembly techniques
    — “Hands-on expertise in both mechanical and electrical systems, including small precision work and large-scale assemblies.”

Things to consider

  • The role requires working in Santa Clara, California, with no mention of remote flexibility
    — “Our offices are in Emeryville and Santa Clara, California.”
  • The position involves close collaboration with engineering teams, requiring strong interpersonal skills
    — “Collaborate closely with design engineers to iterate on prototypes”

How to stand out

  • Highlight experience with multi-process, multi-material prototyping systems in your resume
    — “multi-process, multi-material system: bits and raw materials go in, and complete, functional micromachines come out.”
  • Emphasize your ability to troubleshoot and integrate sensor-actuator systems
    — “troubleshooting multi-domain systems involving sensors, actuators, and embedded controllers”
  • Showcase your ability to create detailed work instructions and assembly documentation
    — “Collaborate with engineering teams to develop electromechanical assembly documentation and detailed work instructions.”
Pace · SteadyCollaboration · HighAutonomy · MediumDecision Impact · Team

Derived from job-description analysis by Serendipath's career intelligence engine.

What success looks like

  • Successfully assembled and validated prototype systems
  • Collaborated with design engineers to iterate on prototypes
Typical background
6+ years of industry experienceHands-on expertise in mechanical and electrical systems

Skills & requirements

Required

Electromechanical IntegrationCAD ModelsElectrical SchematicsMechanical DrawingsSolderingPneumatic PlumbingAdditive ManufacturingTroubleshootingEmbedded ControllersPrototyping

Preferred

MEMS Manufacturing3D Printing

Stack & domain

Electromechanical IntegrationCAD ModelsElectrical SchematicsMechanical DrawingsSurface-mount SolderingThrough-hole SolderingWire Harness FabricationSystem IntegrationElectrical TroubleshootingManual MillsManual LathesLaser Cutters3D PrintersPower ToolsHand ToolsMetrologyInspection SkillsCalipersMicrometersMultimetersPCB SolderingWire Harness AssemblyCollaborationCommunicationAttention To DetailOrganizational AbilitiesTime ManagementMicromanufacturingMEMS Manufacturing3D PrintingDigital PlatformMulti-processMulti-material System

About the role

Original posting from Atomic Machines via Greenhouse

Atomic Machines is building the Matter Compiler™, the first in a new class of AI-native, all-digital manufacturing systems that build working machines directly from code. The Matter Compiler™ is aimed at micro-machines: motors and gears the size of a grain of sand, robots small enough to work inside the body, cooling built directly into the chips that run AI, and the many devices like them that have been waiting on a way to build them. Its first product is PrimeSwitch™, an electromechanical power relay the size of a button battery that carries 150 amps continuous current and opens in 50 microseconds, about a thousand times faster than a conventional contactor. Founded by Jeff Holden — serial entrepreneur, ex-Amazon SVP and Uber’s first Chief Product Officer — the company has raised $250 million to date.

Atomic Machines is based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with offices in Emeryville and Santa Clara.

About The Role:

As an Electromechanical Prototype Technician, you will be responsible for executing complex build procedures across a diverse range of R&D and engineering-driven projects. This role demands proficiency in interpreting detailed CAD models, electrical schematics, and mechanical drawings to fabricate, assemble, and validate prototype systems. You’ll be expected to apply advanced knowledge of electrical wiring, soldering, and harness fabrication, alongside mechanical assembly techniques including pneumatic plumbing and additive manufacturing.

Success in this position requires a strong grasp of electromechanical integration, including troubleshooting multi-domain systems involving sensors, actuators, and embedded controllers. You will collaborate closely with design engineers to iterate on prototypes, provide feedback for design improvements, and ensure builds meet functional and safety specifications. Prior hands-on experience in a development or prototyping environment is essential, particularly in fast-paced settings where adaptability and precision are critical.

What You’ll Do:

Assemble, rework, troubleshoot, maintain, and test new machine designs used in complex automated manufacturing processes.

Perform surface-mount and through-hole PCB soldering, wire harness fabrication, system integration, and electrical troubleshooting.

Collaborate with engineering teams to develop electromechanical assembly documentation and detailed work instructions.

Operate manual mills, manual lathes, laser cutters, 3D printers, and various power and hand tools to fabricate and assemble prototype fixtures and assemblies.

Work cross-functionally to meet project deadlines and support company objectives.

Maintain an organized workspace and assist in inventory management and procurement of consumables.

What You’ll Need:

6+ years of industry experience.

Hands-on expertise in both mechanical and electrical systems, including small precision work and large-scale assemblies.

Proven experience debugging complex electromechanical systems.

Basic metrology or inspection skills (e.g., using calipers, micrometers, multimeters, etc.).

Ability to read and interpret CAD drawings.

Proficiency in reading schematics for troubleshooting and assembly.

Wire harness assembly and PCB soldering experience.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities.

Effective time management and prioritization skills.

Eagerness to learn and take on increasing responsibilities over time.

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline, or equivalent industry experience.

Bonus Points For:

Experience with CAD design.

Familiarity with 3D printing technologies.

Software literacy (e.g., Python scripting).

IPC certifications (J-STD-001, IPC-A-620).

Hourly Rate Range$35—$55 USD Atomic Machines is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and does not discriminate based on characteristics protected by applicable law. We are committed to an inclusive interview experience, including for individuals with disabilities. To request an accommodation, contact rc@atomicmachines.com. To help our recruiting team manage application volume and respond to candidates more efficiently, Atomic Machines may use AI-assisted tools.

Source: Atomic Machines careers (Greenhouse)

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