Lead Assembly Technician

About Bedrock

Bedrock is on a mission to drive the largest Earth-exploration initiative in human history. Our autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and cutting-edge software are designed to map, classify, and unlock the secrets of the ocean floor. With over 80% of the ocean still unexplored, our work is critical for climate stability, maritime security, and environmental conservation. If you're ready to build game-changing technology and make a lasting impact on our planet, we want you on our team.

The Role

As Lead Assembly Technician, you will be at the forefront of bridging design and production, ensuring our pioneering AUVs and subsea systems transition smoothly from prototype to full-scale production. You’ll work closely with engineering, integrations, and manufacturing teams to refine assembly processes, troubleshoot technical challenges, and ensure the highest build quality for mission-critical components.

You thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, have an eye for detail, and love problem-solving. Your expertise in electro-mechanical assembly and dedication to excellence will help us push the boundaries of ocean exploration.

What You’ll Do

• Production Assembly: Hands-on assembly of complex electro-mechanical systems for standard production assemblies, and validating documentation, close out process for high traceability

• Prototype Assembly: Perform hands-on assembly of complex electro-mechanical systems, including AUVs and subsea components, during early development stages

• Testing & Validation: Assist in rigorous system testing to identify and resolve performance issues, ensuring product reliability and optimizing for scale 

• Process Development: Collaborate with engineers to refine and scale manufacturing processes, optimizing for efficiency and quality

• Documentation & Quality Control: Maintain detailed records of build procedures, troubleshooting steps, and improvements to ensure seamless communication across teams

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with engineering, integration, and operations teams to improve manufacturability and streamline assembly workflows

• Troubleshooting & Repair: Diagnose and repair electro-mechanical systems during both assembly and testing phases

• Tool & Workspace Management: Maintain a well-organized, safe, and efficient work environment

About You

Education & Experience

• Associate degree or extensive practical experience with complex vehicle systems

• Experience with autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) or related technologies

• 10+ years of hands-on experience in electro-mechanical assembly for robotics, aerospace, vehicle systems, or other high-precision industries

• Experience leading a team of technicians, overseeing production, and ensuring quality control

• Familiarity with small-batch production and product development working in process-controlled work environments

• Prototype-to-production experience, comfortable iterating designs in an R&D setting.

• Experience executing product acceptance tests from initial assembly through full system validation

• IPC and/or J-STD certification

• Ability to maintain and organize tools, equipment, and lab spaces to ensure efficient operations and safety

• Can enforce quality control processes

Technical Skills

• Exceptional workmanship in details 

• Strong hands-on experience with:

  • Precision assembly of mission-critical components (o-rings, torque specifications, harness dressing, etc.)

  • Wire harness fabrication, soldering, and PCB handling (ESD conscious)

  • Testing tools such as DMMs, current probes, gauges, and thermal cameras

  • Handling high- and low-voltage batteries and power systems.

  • Resin, epoxy, potting, and casting processes

  • Rapid prototyping tools: 3D printing, CNC machining, and fabrication of metal, plastic, and composite components

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and wiring diagrams.

• Strong troubleshooting skills for electrical and mechanical systems

• Experience maintaining and supporting the development of process documentation and assembly guidelines to improve efficiency and product quality

• Proficiency with basic computer tools (Google Suite, Microsoft Office, project management ticketing software)

Soft Skills

• Exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship

• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment

• Ability to adapt to evolving designs

• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset

• Excellent communication and leadership abilities

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 40 lbs and work in dynamic indoor and outdoor environments

• Capable of standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position

• Ability to perform duties in person at Richmond Office

• This role includes 15% travel to support field operations

Bonus Skills

• CAD software proficiency or knowledge of design-for-manufacturability principles

• Experience with hydraulic or pneumatic systems

• Ability to operate heavy machinery (forklifts, lifts, rigging equipment, etc.)

• Programming or scripting experience for automation and data collection

• Maritime or subsea industry experience

Explore the last true frontier left on Earth with us

We’re seeking ultra-determined people who aren’t afraid to pioneer new solutions and challenge conventional assumptions. Most of all, we're looking for high-quality, good human beings with low egos. 

Bedrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Bedrock determines employment on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other protected status covered by either the law or common sense.

If you need any reasonable accommodations in the process, please let us know how we can support you.