Break-It-To-Build-It: Hardware Tester

What you'll do

Unlike almost everything else on micro1's board, this is physical and on site. You work in Los Angeles with actual robotic sub-assemblies, not specs or code, and the job is in the title: push the hardware until it fails, then describe exactly how.

• Running functional and reliability tests on robot components
• Operating diagnostic kit such as DAQ systems and measurement instruments, following written protocols
• Recording procedures, readings and anomalies, in writing and verbally
• Flagging failures and unexpected behaviour clearly
• Working with engineers on root-cause analysis and suggesting test improvements

The link to AI is that the robotics project feeds next-generation AI systems; the ad does not say how the test data is used.

Who fits

• Studying or holding a degree in mechanical, electrical, robotics, mechatronics or a related field
• Comfortable handling equipment and doing repetitive setup and teardown
• Basic electrical and/or mechanical knowledge
• Precise about following procedures, and reliable
• Clear written and spoken reporting

Previous lab or hardware testing experience helps but is not required. The ad explicitly invites students and recent graduates, so this is a real entry point into robotics work.

What it pays

$10–20/hour, micro1's published band. That is low for Los Angeles, where the local minimum wage for employees is above the bottom of this range; as a contractor that floor does not apply to you, so check where your offer lands before committing travel time. No hours, schedule or duration are stated.

Worth knowing

Good:

• Real hands-on robotics hardware experience, good for a CV
• Open to students and new graduates
• Work alongside engineers on root-cause analysis

Less good:

• On site in Los Angeles only; commuting is on you
• Low pay relative to local living costs
• Physically demanding, repetitive setup and teardown
• No schedule, hours or project length published
• Contractor engagement: no benefits, no notice period, your own tax to manage

About this listing

Posted by micro1 on its own jobs portal the day before we read it on 24 September 2026, marked new, with 10 openings. The location is given as "Los Angeles, Cali". micro1's title uses an em dash, which we have replaced with a colon. See micro1.