Field Technician

Field Technician – NODA AI

Location: Austin, TX (On-site, with up to 50% travel)
Clearance Requirement: U.S. Citizen with ability to obtain a security clearance

About NODA

NODA is a venture-backed technology company that is transforming how unmanned systems collaborate in complex, mission-critical environments. We are developing next-generation solutions that enable the autonomous orchestration of heterogeneous unmanned systems across air, sea, land, and space with vital applications in the defense, intelligence, and commercial sectors.

Our Field Technicians play a critical hands-on role in bringing our technology to life through the assembly, integration, and field testing of unmanned systems that directly support mission-critical testing and operations.

Joining NODA means working on meaningful technology that pushes the boundaries of autonomy alongside a team that thrives on innovation, rapid iteration, and collaboration.

The Role

We are seeking a Field Test Technician to support the assembly, integration, and maintenance of our unmanned systems and lab infrastructure. This role is hands-on and critical to ensuring our platforms are reliable and field ready.

The Field Test Technician will:

• Assist with loading, configuring, and updating the Ground Control System (GCS) software during field deployments.

• Support integration of third-party UUVs, USVs, and UAVs into NODA’s orchestration ecosystem, ensuring seamless multi-domain interoperation.

• Be the on-site expert for hardware deployments and field assembly.

• Assemble UAS avionics, airframes, and associated payloads.

• Solder and wire electrical components with precision.

• Maintain and organize lab facilities, tools, and equipment.

• Support system bring-up, pre-flight, and field readiness checks.

• Provide quality control and troubleshooting feedback to engineering teams.

• Assist in testing and validating prototypes during field exercises.

• Capture feedback from demos and integration events, serving as the voice of the customer for internal product refinement.

• Travel up to 50%—including evenings/weekends during mission-critical events and demonstrations.

This position will collaborate closely with engineering, operations, and test teams to ensure our systems meet mission-critical standards. This is a chance to work on high-impact systems that bridge advanced software engineering with real-world robotics.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and wire UAS/robotic platforms, payloads, and support equipment.

• Track, repair, and maintain lab equipment, spare parts, and test assets.

• Participate in system tests and multi-domain field exercises; perform setup, teardown, and technical troubleshooting.

• Conduct inspections to ensure accuracy, durability, and repeatability of assemblies.

• Maintain a safe, organized, and well-documented lab environment.

• Provide structured feedback to engineers to improve designs and processes.

• Draft and maintain event-specific documentation: assembly procedures, test checklists, deployment logs, and after-action reports (AARs).

• Ability to lift 60 lbs and work in lab and outdoor field environments.

Required Qualifications

• U.S. Citizen (required).

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certificate, associate degree, or equivalent military/industry experience preferred.

• 1+ years of hands-on technical experience (assembly, lab, or field environment).

• Experience with soldering, mechanical assembly, and wiring harnesses (preferred).

• Familiarity with 3D printing, fabrication tools, or additive manufacturing (a plus).

• Comfortable working in both lab and outdoor field environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.

• IPC soldering certification or basic electronics certification.

• Familiarity with lab management or inventory software

• Familiarity with standard software development and project management software (e.g., Jira, Confluence, or equivalent).

• Comfort with basic scripting or dashboard tools for system testing or log retrieval (e.g., Python, CLI, spreadsheet-driven test logs).

Skills & Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity.

• Quality control mindset with ability to spot and correct errors.

• Quick learner with the ability to adapt to new tools, platforms, and workflows.

• Independent problem-solving combined with a collaborative, team-oriented approach.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, startup environment.

What We Offer

• Hybrid friendly when possible

• Competitive pay

• Flexible time off

• Generous PTO policy

• Federal holidays

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• Free OneMedical membership

Growth Path at NODA

At NODA, we believe in growing talent from within. A successful Field Test Technician will have opportunities to expand their role and career trajectory based on performance and interest. Possible growth paths include:

• Field Test Engineer – taking on responsibility for designing and executing test plans.

• Integration Engineer – focusing on hardware/software integration and system bring-up.

• Lab Manager – owning lab processes, safety, and supporting multiple engineering teams.

• Operations Engineer – supporting deployments and operational readiness for customers.

• Test Lead / Operations Coordinator – leading small test campaigns, mentoring junior staff, and interfacing with customers during trials.

• Field Operations Specialist – focusing on logistics, customer interfacing, and operational execution during demos and deployments.

This role offers hands-on exposure to advanced unmanned systems, with mentorship from senior engineers and opportunities to grow into leadership or specialized technical roles as NODA scales.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, age, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.