Robotics Lab Technician (Part-Time)

Job Description

• Support hardware testing in the lab: set up test rigs, run test procedures, capture results, and flag issues.
• Act as the on-site hands for remote engineers: record and collect ROS bags, run robots through scenarios, and join live pair-debugging sessions on real hardware.
• Support fabrication: 3D printing (prepping, printing, post-processing parts) and building/assembling workcells, fixtures, and cabling.
• Keep the lab organized and test-ready: manage hardware, cables, and fixtures, and handle basic setup and maintenance.
• Document test setups, results, and observations clearly so a distributed team stays unblocked.

Qualifications

• Local to the San Francisco Bay Area and able to work on-site 20-30 hours per week; Our lab is located in Oakland near the airport.
• Hands-on aptitude with hardware: comfortable troubleshooting robotics systems.
• Comfortable in a Linux/terminal environment; basic ROS/ROS2 familiarity (e.g., recording ROS bags) or the ability to pick it up quickly.
• Some Python exposure: enough to follow along and be useful in a pair-debugging session.
• Organized, reliable, and a clear communicator, especially in writing with remote teammates.

Nice to have

• 3D printing experience and comfort with basic shop/fabrication tools.
• Coursework or hobby projects in robotics, mechatronics, EE, ME, or CS.
• Exposure to industrial or collaborative arms, teach pendants, sensors, or machine vision.
• Degree in Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, Mechatronics, etc.

Additional Information

Potential for this role to grow into a full-time position as the company grows.

Compensation Range

$27/hr to $38/hr for 20-30 hours per week.

ThoughtForge does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity or expression), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability (physical, mental or sensory), genetic information, age, parental status, military service and veteran status, hair-style, tattoos or piercings or other non-merit based factors. In addition, we're committed to providing a collaborative and healthy workplace for our employees and will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.

RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: Please note that this position is NOT open to agency support at this time. Please do NOT reach out.