Robotics Technician

About Menlo Research

Menlo Research is an Applied R&D laboratory dedicated to developing Asimov, an open-source humanoid robot platform along with its comprehensive software ecosystem. The company's mission focuses on making humanoid labor cost-effective by translating software capabilities into scalable physical work. Their work spans the entire technology stack including hardware design, locomotion, autonomous systems, simulation, and related infrastructure. Menlo operates at a rapid pace, delivering solutions to actual robots and open-sourcing much of their work.

Role Overview

The Robotics Technician will be instrumental in physically realizing the Asimov humanoid robot. This hands-on role involves tasks such as assembling electronic components, welding structural brackets, crimping wiring harnesses, and troubleshooting CAN network communications. The technician will directly engage with cutting-edge robotic hardware, ensuring design robustness and the translation of technical drawings into functional robot assemblies.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute precise mechanical and electrical assembly tasks, including routing harnesses, soldering PCBs, crimping cables, and installing components.
• Detect and report mechanical and design inconsistencies during build to enhance system reliability and scalability.
• Fabricate and evaluate custom mounts, fixtures, and testing equipment under strict time constraints.
• Contribute to the final robot platform assembly as components arrive sequentially in the upcoming months.
• Diagnose system issues applying automotive-style troubleshooting methodologies.
• Maintain thorough and clear documentation supported by photographic evidence linked to project tracking systems.
• Ensure workshop cleanliness, organize work areas, and uphold safety and compliance standards.
• Operate independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high-quality standards.

Candidate Profile

• Proven practical skills in mechanical fabrication and electronic circuit assembly.
• Ability to confidently interpret wiring schematics and layout diagrams.
• Proficient use of manual and power hand tools, multimeters, and basic CAD software for viewing designs.
• Experienced in wiring harness preparation, termination skills including crimping, heat-shrinking, and connector installation.
• Comfort with iterative troubleshooting and continual refinement of assemblies.
• Commitment to detailed, clean documentation and reproducible procedures.
• Background in automotive, industrial equipment, or robotics sectors is preferred.

Additional Desirable Skills

• Understanding of CAN bus communication protocols and ability to perform related analysis.
• Experience with chassis assemblies or vehicle-scale system integration.
• Knowledge of mechanical torque specifications, tolerance accumulation, and structural integrity assessments.
• Familiarity with fast-paced startup environments and product development cycles.

Why Join Us

As a member of a close-knit team at Menlo, you will have significant responsibility for shaping the next generation of humanoid robots. The role emphasizes autonomy and creativity in problem-solving, with the rewarding prospect of seeing your hands-on work deployed in real-world robotics applications. The workplace culture encourages fast, open, and collaborative development processes.

AI at Menlo

While deep AI expertise is not mandatory for this role, intellectual curiosity, a tinkering mindset, and an eagerness to leverage AI as a collaborative tool are highly valued. Menlo expects its team members to use AI thoughtfully to enhance their work rather than viewing it as a novelty.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Menlo Research welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and actively encourages applications from individuals who may not meet every qualification perfectly. The company values inclusivity and provides reasonable accommodations through the recruitment process upon request.