The posting
Who we are
Atoms is building the machines that power the next era of progress.
Over the last decade, software has transformed the digital world. But the physical world, where food is made, minerals are mined, goods are moved, and industries are run, remains far less intelligent, far less efficient, and far more constrained. We’re changing that.
Atoms builds Physical AI— real-world robots for the industries that move civilization forward, starting with food, mining, and transport. Our systems are designed to understand, predict, and control the real world with precision, turning complex physical operations into something more reliable, more scalable, and more productive.
This work requires more than robotics. It requires deep integration across hardware, software, AI, operations, manufacturing, and real estate. We don’t just build machines in a lab. We deploy them into real environments, operate them, learn from them, and improve them until they work at scale.
We are roboticists, engineers, operators, and builders. We believe the next great technology companies will not only transform information, but the physical systems that shape everyday life.
If you want to work on hard problems with real-world impact, join us.
About the role
We’re hiring a mid-level Test Engineering Technician for the Dev Fleet & Test team. You’’ll run hands-on testing on our development vehicles and systems, working with test, hardware and autonomy engineers. You will turn test plans into execution: get vehicles test-ready, set up instrumentation and data logging, run test procedures on the track and in the field, and capture clean data and clear findings for engineering. Beyond testing, you’ll support other development work as needed, including prototyping, harness development, test bench builds and maintenance, and vehicle bring-up. Much of this work is first-of-its-kind, so we need someone who can work from loose plans with little instruction, think through setup and safety on their own, and is as comfortable with software bring-up and diagnostics as with the hardware. A good hire runs routine tests and small builds on their own within about 3–6 months. The role is onsite in SF, with regular travel to test sites (e.g., Richmond) and some early-morning, after-hours or weekend testing.
What you’ll do
- Run vehicle and system tests from test plans, often first-of-its-kind and with limited instructions, and write down exactly what was run and observed
- Get development vehicles test-ready, including pre-test inspections, functional and safety checks, and go/no-go sign-off
- Support development work beyond testing, including prototyping, building wire harnesses, test bench builds and maintenance, and bringing up new vehicles
- Set up and maintain test instrumentation, data logging and fixtures, including sensors, DAQ, harnesses and test cables
- Run hardware and software bring-up: flash firmware, configure compute, and check that sensors, data and vehicle interfaces are working
- Diagnose and troubleshoot problems across mechanical, electrical, firmware and software using logs, CAN tools and test equipment
- Turn test results and failures into clear, actionable reports and tickets for hardware and autonomy engineers, and help improve test procedures and checklists
- Support testing at the track and in the field, and keep test equipment, spares and the shop organized
What we’re looking for
- 3+ years of hands-on experience in vehicle or hardware testing, test technician work, prototype build, automotive or EV service, or electromechanical integration
- Comfort working on first-of-its-kind tests and builds with little documentation, and good judgment about setup, safety and when to stop a test
- Methodical troubleshooting across hardware and software, plus comfort with Linux, the command line and reading logs
- Working knowledge of low-voltage power, grounding, connectors and CAN bus, and the ability to read wiring diagrams, schematics and mechanical drawings
- Hands-on harness and fabrication skills (crimping, soldering, continuity testing), plus experience with multimeters, oscilloscopes, DAQ systems and CAN analysis tools
- Careful about data quality: clear, timely test notes, results and documentation that others can trust and repeat, clear communication with engineers & the ability to explain what happened, what you checked and what you think is wrong
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, work outdoors in different weather, travel to test sites, and support early-morning, after-hours or weekend testing
- Experience with autonomous vehicles, EVs, motorsport or heavy equipment; CAD, scripting (Python or Bash) for test automation or data analysis preferred
- A driver’s license with test-driving or safety-driver experience preferred
Why join us
At Atoms, you’ll work on one of the defining challenges of our time—bringing automation into the physical world to drive real, lasting impact. We exist to uncover valuable unknown truths and turn them into progress, which means constantly pushing beyond what’s known and building what doesn’t yet exist. The work is ambitious and often challenging, but it’s grounded in a shared sense of purpose and a team committed to seeing it through together. Our work only matters if it serves others, and we know that meaningful progress depends on the trust of the people we serve and the strength of our team—so we invest in both, creating an environment where you can do your best work and grow.
What else you need to know
This role is based in our San Francisco office. Atoms is a company driven by invention and continuous change - we are constantly reimagining our industries, building new products, and refining how we operate. We do our best work together. That’s why all of our office-based teams work onsite, five days a week.
The base starting rate for this role is $38.00 - $60.00 per hour.
Actual compensation will be determined on an individual basis and may vary depending on experience, skills, and qualifications.
Benefits Summary:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance (multiple plans, incl. HSA options)
- Company-paid life and disability insurance (short- and long-term)
- Voluntary insurance: accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity
- Optional supplemental life insurance for self, spouse, and children
- Pet insurance discount (Fetch)
- 401(k)
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter)
- Time Off policies
- Paid Vacation Time (1h for every 26h worked)
- 8 paid holidays per year
- Paid sick time
- Paid Bereavement leave
- Paid Parental Leave.
Benefits are subject to change at the company's discretion. Atoms accepts applications on an ongoing basis.
Ready to join us as we serve those who serve others?
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