Vehicle Build Technician
Kodiak Robotics
San Francisco, CA, USA
USD 38-52 / hour + Equity
Posted on May 10, 2025
Kodiak Robotics, Inc. was founded in 2018 and has become a leader in autonomous ground transportation committed to a safer and more efficient future for all. The company has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) powered technology stack purpose-built for commercial trucking and the public sector. The company delivers freight daily for its customers across the southern United States using its autonomous technology. In 2024, Kodiak became the first known company to publicly announce delivering a driverless semi-truck to a customer. Kodiak is also leveraging its commercial self-driving software to develop, test and deploy autonomous capabilities for the U.S. Department of Defense.
We are looking for a Vehicle Build Technician to join us in building and maintaining our experimental and operations vehicles.
In this role, you will:
- Build and maintain vehicle electrical systems by assembling wire harnesses, installing connectors, and performing diagnostics on 12V–24V low-voltage systems.
- Perform mechanical work and fabrication using tools such as torque wrenches, drills, and grinders, including modifying or installing sensor mounts and brackets.
- Troubleshoot and validate automotive communication systems such as CAN bus using diagnostic tools like multimeters and oscilloscopes.
- Support prototyping and bench testing by assembling test setups, validating electrical and mechanical components, and working from schematics and engineering instructions.
- Be responsible for modifications and maintenance to autonomous vehicle platforms.
- Inspect and certify the operational state of vehicles.
- Create and maintain both vehicle build and maintenance documentation to shape fleet growth to scale.
- Maintain and manage shop equipment to ensure optimal working conditions.
What you'll bring:
- Strong hands-on background. Substantial and diverse experience in the trucking industry. Familiarity with maintenance of safety-critical hardware systems. Certifications in automotive, industrial, or aerospace service preferred (ASE, A&P, etc).
- Strong electrical diagnostics experience. You know how to chase down any electrical gremlins and correct them.
- Strong mechanical and fabrication skills. You have experience using torque wrenches, drills, grinders, and have the ability to install or modify sensor mounts and brackets
- Working knowledge of automotive communication protocols such as CAN bus, including basic troubleshooting and use of diagnostic tools like a multimeter or scope
- Knowledge of electrical systems, wiring, and all necessary equipment. Able to read schematics, electrical diagrams, harness diagrams, etc.
- Reliability and consistency. You have a track record of meticulous work. You are comfortable developing and practicing methodical service through the use of checklists, protocols, and work documentation.
- Clear communication. You are comfortable providing feedback to engineers, and sharing insights with the team at large to improve products and processes. You know how to collaborate, and when to get secondary inspection and review for safety-critical decisions.
- Innovative mindset. You like to find ways to improve the system you are working on. You can solve problems and complete tasks even when the path to the solution is not clear at the outset.
What we offer:
- Competitive compensation package including equity and biannual bonuses
- Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision plans through Kaiser Permanente, Anthem, and Guardian (including a medical plan with infertility benefits)
- Our office is centrally located in Mountain View, CA
- Office perks: dog-friendly, free catered lunch, a fully stocked kitchen, and free EV charging
- Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Life Insurance
- Wellbeing Benefits - Headspace, One Medical, Gympass, Spring Health
- Fidelity 401(k)
- Commuter, FSA, Dependent Care FSA, HSA
- Various incentive programs (referral bonuses, patent bonuses, etc.)
The hourly range for this full-time position is $38-$52/hr + bonus + equity + benefits. Actual salary ranges will be based on job-related factors, including exact work location, experience, relevant training and education, and skill level. Please note that the compensation details listed above are base salary only and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits.
At Kodiak, we strive to build a diverse community working towards our common company goals in a safe and collaborative environment where harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited. Kodiak is committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law.
In alignment with its business operations, Kodiak adheres to all relevant statutes, regulations, and administrative prerequisites. Accordingly, roles that carry more sensitive requirements may be limited to candidates that can satisfy additional scrutiny and eligibility for such positions may hinge on verification of a candidate’s residence, U.S. person status, and/or citizenship status. Should the position require, and Kodiak determines that a candidate’s residence, U.S. person status, and/or citizenship status necessitate an export license, bar the candidate from the position, or otherwise fall under national security-related restrictions, Kodiak will consider the candidate for alternative positions unaffected by such restrictions, under terms and conditions set forth at Kodiak’s sole discretion, or, as an alternative, opt not to proceed with the candidate’s application. If applicable, Kodiak may provide visa sponsorship for eligible candidates.