Hardware Lab Technician

Roles And Responsibilities

Inventory and documentation (primary)

• Own and maintain the lab’s inventory of electronic components, PCBs, tools, fixtures, consumables, and test equipment using the designated inventory management system.
• Perform regular stock checks and audits; reconcile physical stock with system records, investigate discrepancies, and keep inventory data accurate and up to date.
• Define and maintain storage locations, labels, and binning for components and assemblies to ensure easy traceability and quick retrieval.
• Monitor minimum stock levels and lead times; raise purchase requests or coordinate with procurement to ensure timely replenishment of components and consumables.
• Receive, verify, and log incoming materials and equipment against purchase documentation; update records and inform stakeholders of availability.
• Maintain structured documentation for builds and testing, including build logs, rework logs, version/lot tracking, and test result records as per internal templates and procedures.
• Create and maintain checklists, lab SOPs, equipment usage guidelines, and safety documentation in collaboration with engineers and management.
• Ensure all lab activities are properly documented to provide traceability for prototypes, experiments, production pilots, and quality audits.
  

Lab operations and safety

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe lab environment, ensuring workbenches, storage areas, and shared spaces are kept in order and compliant with safety guidelines.
• Track tool and equipment check‑in/check‑out, calibration status, and service history; coordinate with internal teams or vendors for preventive maintenance, calibration, and repairs.
• Perform basic preventive maintenance on lab tools and instruments as per manufacturer guidelines (e.g., visual checks, functional checks, simple adjustments).
• Monitor and enforce adherence to lab safety procedures, ESD controls promptly report hazards, near misses, and incidents.
• Support continuous improvement of lab workflows by identifying bottlenecks, suggesting changes to layout, labeling, or processes, and helping implement approved improvements.
  

Testing, troubleshooting, and assembly support

• Assist engineers in setting up and executing tests on circuit boards, wire harnesses, and basic electronic circuits using equipment such as mixed‑signal oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, power supplies, and DMMs.
• Follow provided test procedures, drawings, and instructions to perform in‑process checks and basic functional testing, and record results accurately in designated forms or systems.
• Assemble and rework PCBs by soldering fine‑pitch SMD and through‑hole components, following workmanship standards and ESD practices.
• Inspect assembled boards and sub‑assemblies for visible defects or obvious functional issues; highlight non‑conformities and escalate to the responsible engineer for disposition.
• Support root‑cause investigations by capturing clear observations, taking photos/logs, and helping reproduce reported issues under engineer supervision.
  

PCB layout and CAD support (secondary / nice to have)

• Support the PCB layout team by assisting in creation and maintenance of component libraries, symbols, and footprints in the chosen EDA tools.
• Help with simple PCB layout edits or documentation updates (e.g., layer stack notes, fabrication drawings, assembly drawings) as directed by senior engineers.
• Maintain organized storage and revision control of design files, Gerbers, assembly documents, and related lab build documentation.
  

Qualifications And Skills

• 0–3 years of experience as a hardware lab technician, electronics technician, or similar role (freshers with strong lab exposure can be considered).
• Basic understanding of analog and digital electronics, common lab instruments, and PCB assembly processes.
• Strong proficiency with spreadsheets or inventory tools; comfortable working with digital documentation, templates, and checklists.
• Good soldering skills (SMD and through‑hole) and familiarity with ESD‑safe handling practices.
• Ability to read and interpret basic schematics, assembly drawings, and work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and a process‑oriented mindset; comfortable with repetitive but critical documentation tasks.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to work closely with engineers, production, and procurement teams.
  

Behavioral attributes and work style

• Highly organized and disciplined in maintaining records, logs, and physical order in the lab.
• Ownership mindset for lab assets and inventory, treating the lab as a critical shared resource for the engineering team.
• Willingness to learn new tools, processes, and safety practices, and to participate in continuous training related to lab operations and electronics manufacturing.