Hardware Prototyping Technician
Obvio
Location
San Carlos
Employment Type
Full time
Location Type
On-site
Department
Engineering
About Obvio AI
Each year, more than 7,500 pedestrians are killed by drivers in the U.S.—a number that has increased by 70% over the past decade. Despite growing awareness, most cities still struggle to curb dangerous driving. “Vision Zero” efforts across the country are falling short.
Obvio AI exists to change that.
We deploy solar-powered, AI-assisted cameras to enforce traffic laws where pedestrians are most vulnerable—automating enforcement in ways that police departments or traditional systems cannot. Our approach has already led to a dramatic reduction in reckless driving and improved safety for pedestrians, drivers, and law enforcement alike.
Founded by the team behind Motive’s AI dashcam, Obvio is backed by Bain Capital Ventures and Khosla Ventures. We recently raised a $22M Series A and are working with some of the most forward-thinking cities in the country. With meaningful revenue, a massive market, and strong policy momentum, we’re building the intelligence layer for safer streets globally.
About the Role
We are looking for a hands-on Hardware Prototyping Technician to join our dynamic hardware team. In this role, you’ll be responsible for in-house prototyping, product assembly, logistics, and process optimization to support the development and deployment of our cutting-edge AI-powered solutions. You will collaborate closely with the engineering team to ensure prototypes are built to design specifications, production workflows are streamlined, and inventory is tracked with precision.
What You’ll Do
Rapid Hardware Prototyping: Build and iterate cutting-edge hardware prototypes alongside engineers, turning early concepts into functional systems within days—not months.
Hands-on System Integration: Assemble complex electro-mechanical systems including PCBs, sensors, compute modules, and mechanical assemblies to bring prototypes to life.
Fast Iteration Lab Environment: Operate in a high-velocity prototyping lab—debugging, modifying, and rebuilding hardware quickly to support aggressive engineering timelines.
Prototype Infrastructure & Lab Operations: Maintain the tools, components, and lab environment that enable rapid experimentation and continuous hardware iteration.
Component & Prototype Logistics: Ensure critical components and prototype builds move seamlessly through the lab so engineers can test and validate designs without delay.
Engineer-in-the-Loop Collaboration: Work shoulder-to-shoulder with electrical, mechanical, and firmware teams to unblock prototype builds, improve manufacturability, and accelerate product development.
What We’re Looking For
Strong background in hands-on prototyping, assembly, or manufacturing processes.
Familiarity with hardware tools, fabrication methods, and test equipment.
Experience with logistics, inventory management systems, and process tracking.
Ability to read and understand technical drawings, schematics, and BOMs.
Excellent problem-solving, organization, and time management skills.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with evolving priorities.
Minimum Qualifications
Associate degree in Electronics, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a related technical field (or equivalent hands-on experience).
3+ years of hands-on experience building and assembling hardware prototypes in a lab or production environment.
Strong practical skills with soldering, wiring, PCB bring-up, and general electronics assembly.
Experience working with engineering teams to rapidly build and iterate hardware prototypes.
Ability to work independently in a fast-moving environment and manage multiple prototype builds simultaneously.
Experience working in startup or early-stage product development environments is highly preferred.
Preferred Experience
Hands-on experience with camera systems, sensors, or embedded/AI hardware platforms.
Experience debugging prototype hardware and supporting early hardware validation.
Comfort working with oscilloscopes, power supplies, multimeters, and other lab equipment.
Experience with rapid prototyping tools (3D printing, CNC, laser cutting, etc.).
Knowledge of lean manufacturing practices or Six Sigma.
Exposure to hardware startups or R&D environments.
Why Obvio
Your work will help save lives and improve road safety
Series A of $22M led by Bain Capital
Fast-moving startup environment with meaningful ownership
Competitive compensation and early-stage equity
Obvio is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in hiring or any employment decision based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or other applicable legally protected characteristic. Obvio considers qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. Obvio is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please let your recruiter know.