Production Technician

Location: Houston, TX (Onsite)

Department: Sales 

About Us

Paladin is revolutionizing public safety with autonomous drone technology. Our mission? To be on the frontline of emergencies within 90 seconds. When someone dials 911, our drones take flight, providing first responders with a real-time overhead view of the situation, amplifying their situational awareness and hastening response times. Leveraging LTE for unlimited range and control, our drones currently answer the call of duty over 1000 times weekly across multiple cities and states. 

Our vision is ambitious: within the next decade, our technology will be an essential tool for first responders in every city worldwide. As a tight-knit, passionate, and forward-thinking team, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of UAV tech and making a monumental difference in a rapidly advancing domain.

The Role

We are looking for a detail-oriented and technically proficient Production Technician to join our team. In this role, you’ll be responsible for assembling, testing, and shipping our proprietary hardware platforms, including the EXT and ADS-B units. This position requires a strong combination of hands-on hardware experience, Linux and Python familiarity, and excellent diagnostic skills.

Primary Responsibilities

Hardware Assembly:

• Build, configure, and test EXT and ADS-B hardware units to meet production quality standards.
• Follow detailed assembly procedures and contribute to the continuous improvement of documentation.
   

Linux System Familiarity:

• Operate and configure our Linux-based OS on the EXT.
• Run and validate production Python scripts as part of the configuration and QA process.
   

Scripting and Automation:

• Utilize and occasionally debug Python scripts that support production and validation tasks.
• Provide feedback on script performance or failures to the engineering team.
   

Soldering and Rework:

• Perform light soldering and electronic assembly tasks, including occasional rework.
• Experience with both through-hole and surface mount soldering is strongly recommended.
   

Troubleshooting:

• Identify, isolate, and resolve hardware issues during build and QA.
• Perform root cause analysis and communicate findings clearly with engineering.
   

Shipping & Logistics:

• Fulfill all outgoing shipping orders for EXT and ADS-B units.
• Prepare packages, generate shipping labels, and maintain shipping records.
   

Quality Assurance:

• Execute QA checklists and verify proper function of all assembled units.
• Log production and test data accurately to ensure traceability and accountability.
   

Required Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in hardware assembly, electronics production, or technical manufacturing.
• Familiarity with Linux operating systems (basic command line navigation, file manipulation, permissions).
• Comfort running and interpreting Python scripts in a production or test environment.
• Hands-on experience with soldering (through-hole required; surface-mount preferred).
• Ability to read and follow technical assembly instructions, wiring diagrams, and part lists.
• Demonstrated experience in hardware troubleshooting using multimeters or diagnostic tools.
• Experience in fulfilling shipping orders, including label printing and packaging procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate logs of work and test results.
• Able to lift up to 40 lbs and perform light physical work in a lab/warehouse setting.
   

Ideal Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in a production technician or electronics assembler role.
• Proficiency with more advanced Linux tools (e.g., bash, rsync, dmesg, USB device diagnostics).
• Basic understanding of Python — ability to read code, modify arguments, or interpret simple logs.
• Experience building or working with ADS-B or RF-based electronics is a major plus.
• Familiarity with inventory management systems and production tracking software.
• Comfort with task management tools such as Jira, Asana, or similar platforms used in operational or technical workflows.
• Prior experience in a startup or a fast-paced environment, where roles can evolve and grow.
• IPC soldering certification or equivalent training (not required, but highly valued).
  
   

Why Join Paladin Drones?

• Contribute to the development of cutting-edge autonomous drone technology
• Grow your career in the rapidly expanding UAV and robotics industry
• Competitive salary and equity packages
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Unlimited PTO and paid holidays
• Opportunity to grow with a mission-driven, innovative company
• A collaborative and fast-paced work environment

Join Paladin Drones and contribute to the future of autonomous emergency response technology. Apply today to be part of an innovative team making a real-world impact!

Paladin Drones is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.