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Zipline
Actively hiring

Production Technician

Workplace
On-site
Commitment
Full-time
Seniority
Mid-Level
Salary
$28 - $38/hr
Posted
Location
South San Francisco, United States

Zipline is hiring a Production Technician to join its Production Team, responsible for the mechanical assembly and testing of all manufactured hardware, including engineering validation builds and production intent assemblies. The role involves hands-on assembly, testing, and troubleshooting of avionics systems and electro-mechanical components, with a focus on PCBA integration, cable routing, and electronic potting. The technician will execute builds from written instructions, follow standard operating procedures, and collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure quality and meet production schedules. This role is critical to scaling manufacturing from engineering validation to volume production to support Zipline's global distribution centers.

Responsibilities

  • Support the full lifecycle of electro-mechanical and avionics hardware builds—from assembly through validation testing—ensuring high-quality output that meets tight production schedules and rigorous standards.
  • Assemble and test complex electro-mechanical and avionics systems, including PCB assemblies, cable harnesses, and integrated modules, following detailed schematics, MPIs, and all quality and safety protocols.
  • Troubleshoot build issues and perform rework as needed, using tools like oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and multimeters; collaborate with electrical, RF, and mechanical engineers to resolve failures and integration problems.
  • Support engineering validation activities (thermal, EMI/ESD, vibration), and assist with the mechanical integration of electronics into aircraft, including precise PCB mounting, connector installation, and cable routing.
  • Maintain manufacturing lines in a clean, organized, and inspection-ready state, following 5S and lean manufacturing practices to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance.
  • Provide real-time feedback on design, manufacturability, and assembly processes to Manufacturing, Quality, and Design Engineering teams to help improve quality, test coverage, and production efficiency.
  • Build, maintain, and troubleshoot custom fixtures; assist with setup and calibration of test stations, and document test results, failure analysis, and process improvements in a clear and repeatable format.
  • Draft training materials and support onboarding and skill development for new production technicians, especially around new hardware assembly processes.
  • Adapt quickly to shifting priorities across multiple projects, and remain flexible and proactive when working under tight deadlines or extended hours, including weekends when necessary.

Requirements

  • Demonstrated experience with bonding/potting processes and fine-detail assembly work.
  • Comfortable wearing a protective respirator for extended durations as required.
  • Strong ability to interpret and execute from complex technical documentation with minimal supervision.
  • Quick-thinking, resourceful, and collaborative, with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 4 years’ experience in prototyping, assembly, or manufacturing of electro-mechanical components.
  • Proven hands-on experience with PCBA mechanical integration, cable routing, and enclosure assembly.
  • Extensive experience with electronic potting, including safe handling of adhesives and respirator use.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Direct experience with reading and understanding manufacturing instructions and mechanical drawings with basic understanding of electrical systems.
  • High level of craftsmanship and attention to detail married with the ability to work quickly.
  • Quality focused mindset with the ability to manage time across multiple competing tasks and priorities.
  • Able to lift 30-50 pounds on a daily basis and to maintain a safe working environment.
  • A solid understanding of 5S methodology.
  • Able to stand for long periods of time
  • Perform general electrical assembly including soldering, wiring, crimping, and connector installation according to schematics and work instructions.
  • Conduct battery cell assembly, handling cells in compliance with safety protocols, and ensuring correct polarity, insulation, and protection mechanisms are applied.
  • Execute wirebonding operations (manual and/or automated), ensuring bond integrity, alignment, and cleanliness meet spec.
  • Operate and maintain laser cleaning equipment for surface preparation of components prior to bonding or assembly.
  • Follow ESD, PPE, and other safety guidelines, especially when working with high-voltage or energy-dense materials.

Benefits

  • The starting cash range for this role is $28-38/hr. Please note that this is a target, starting cash range for a candidate who meets the minimum qualifications for this role. The final cash pay for this role will depend on a variety of factors, including a specific candidate's experience, qualifications, skills, working location, and projected impact. The total compensation package for this role may also include: equity compensation; discretionary annual or performance bonuses; sales incentives; benefits such as medical, dental and vision insurance; paid time off; and more.