R&D Technician

About Tacit

We are an early-stage, deep tech startup based in San Francisco, developing innovative hardware that rethinks human-computer interaction. We are backed by General Catalyst, Khosla Ventures, and Greylock Partners, with a founding team from Stanford, BrainGate, Oculus, and Tesla. While we can’t reveal too much just yet, our team is tackling cutting-edge engineering challenges to bring revolutionary products to life.

About the role

We’re looking for an R&D Technician to join our lab team on a temporary contract basis to help build, modify, and test next-generation wearable hardware prototypes as we prepare for data collection.

This role is ideal for someone who is highly hands-on, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-moving R&D lab environment. You will work closely with RF, electrical, mechanical, and hardware engineers to assemble prototypes, rework PCBAs, build test fixtures and cables, run laboratory measurements, collect data, and support debugging of electronic and RF systems.

This is an on-site temporary contract role (3-6 months).

What you'll do

• Prototype Assembly, Soldering & Rework

  • Assemble, modify, and repair electronic prototypes, PCB assemblies, cables, RF modules, fixtures, and test setups.

  • Perform fine-pitch soldering, rework, and electronic assembly tasks with high attention to detail.
  • Build and evaluate prototype assemblies for engineering testing and data collection.
  • Read and interpret schematics, PCB layouts, wiring diagrams, assembly drawings, and technical specifications.
  • Work carefully with small components, laboratory instruments, and delicate prototype hardware.
• RF & Electrical Lab Testing

  • Perform RF and electrical measurements using laboratory equipment such as:

    • oscilloscopes

    • spectrum analyzers
    • vector network analyzers (VNAs)
    • signal generators
    • multimeters
    • RF power meters
    • RF test fixtures
• Data Collection, Documentation & Reporting

  • Collect, record, and organize experimental data accurately.

  • Maintain detailed records of test results, observations, build notes, and project activities.
  • Follow test procedures and protocols consistently while flagging issues or inconsistencies to the engineering team.
  • Help improve lab processes, documentation, and repeatability of test setups.
• Lab Operations & Equipment Support

  • Calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory and testing equipment.

  • Maintain laboratory supplies, components, tools, and inventory.
  • Ensure compliance with company safety procedures, quality standards, and laboratory practices.
  • Support environmental, performance, and reliability testing according to engineering specifications.
  • Assist with production trials, prototype builds, and scale-up activities when required.

Requirements

• Strong hands-on soldering, rework, and electronic assembly experience.
• Experience working with electronic circuits, PCB assemblies, RF components, cables, fixtures, and prototype hardware.
• Experience using lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, VNAs, signal generators, multimeters, and RF power meters.
• Ability to read and interpret schematics, PCB layouts, wiring diagrams, and technical specifications.
• Understanding of basic electronic circuit fundamentals and RF principles.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Good documentation and reporting skills.
• Ability to follow technical procedures, test plans, and laboratory protocols.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-moving lab environment.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team.

Strong candidates may have

• 3–5 years of hands-on testing, troubleshooting, prototype assembly, or product development experience.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field.
• Familiarity with RF communication systems, wireless technologies, antennas, or microwave systems.
• Familiarity with RF measurements such as gain, return loss, VSWR, insertion loss, noise figure, and power measurements.
• Experience supporting design verification, validation, reliability testing, or environmental testing.
• Experience working in a startup, R&D lab, product development, or manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with quality systems, ISO, GMP, or similar industry standards.

Compensation Range

$35 - $40/hr

Benefits

• Company size: 20-30 people