Data Operations Technician – Robotics / AR-VR Hardware Testing
Location: Burlingame, CA
Schedule: Full-time, on-site
Position Type: Contract / Contingent Workforce
Experience: 1–3 years
Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred, Computer Science or related technical field strongly preferred
About the Role
We are seeking a Data Operations Technician to support hands-on robotics and AR/VR data collection projects in a structured lab environment. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working directly with prototype hardware, robotics systems, XR devices, sensors, and headsets, and who can follow detailed technical instructions with accuracy and consistency.
This is not a software engineering role and not a traditional desk-based data annotation role. The right candidate will be comfortable being on their feet throughout the day, physically interacting with robots and XR hardware, running test scenarios, validating robot behavior, documenting results, and supporting high-quality data generation.
A strong candidate will “think like an engineer” even if they are not an engineer — understanding inputs, outputs, test steps, validation, and troubleshooting.
What You’ll Do
- Operate and set up prototype robotics and XR/AR/VR devices, including headsets and other lab hardware.
- Perform hands-on data collection tasks by guiding, testing, and validating robotic or XR device behavior.
- Follow detailed protocols and technical instructions to ensure consistent test execution.
- Observe robotic actions, validate whether tasks were completed correctly, and document results.
- Perform initial quality checks and flag issues for follow-up.
- Annotate, label, and review collected data using internal tools.
- Support device setup, calibration, troubleshooting, and workflow improvements.
- Document technical issues, testing outcomes, and process observations clearly.
- Collaborate with project leads and team members in a fast-paced, on-site lab environment.
- Follow all safety, privacy, confidentiality, and operational guidelines.
What We’re Looking For
- Hands-on experience physically working with hardware, robotics, AR/VR devices, XR devices, sensors, headsets, or prototype equipment.
- Ability to follow complex instructions and repeat procedures with strong attention to detail.
- Comfort performing repetitive, structured tasks while maintaining accuracy.
- Ability to work on-site and remain on your feet for extended periods.
- Basic computer literacy and ability to use internal tools for data entry, annotation, tracking, and documentation.
- Strong reliability, punctuality, and ability to work independently without constant hand-holding.
- Ability to identify issues, follow escalation steps, and provide clear feedback.
- Comfortable working with emerging technology and adapting as processes evolve.
Preferred Experience
- Experience with Meta Quest 3 or similar AR/VR headsets.
- Experience in a lab, robotics, hardware testing, product testing, device validation, or prototype environment.
- Familiarity with calibration, device bring-up, test execution, hardware validation, QA testing, or troubleshooting.
- Experience with data annotation, labeling, or quality assurance tools.
- Computer Science, engineering, robotics, HCI, information systems, or related technical education.
- Basic Excel, Python, scripting, or reporting experience is a plus, but not required.
Strong Backgrounds May Include
- Robotics Technician
- Hardware Test Technician
- AR/VR Test Technician
- XR Device Tester
- Prototype Test Technician
- Engineering Technician
- QA Hardware Tester
- Lab Technician
- Research Assistant in robotics, AR/VR, HCI, sensors, or hardware testing
- Computer Science graduate with hands-on lab or device testing experience
Important Fit Notes
This role is best suited for candidates who have physically interacted with hardware in a lab or testing environment. Candidates who have only done software testing, data annotation, machine learning support, or desk-based QA without hands-on device work may not be the right fit.
You should be comfortable with repetitive testing, standing for long periods, using AR/VR technology, following precise procedures, and documenting results accurately.
Why This Role
This is an opportunity to work directly with emerging robotics and XR technology, support advanced data generation efforts, and contribute to high-priority product development in a hands-on lab environment. This role can also serve as a strong pathway into future data operations, hardware testing, QA, or technical leadership opportunities.
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Pay: From $26.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
Work Location: In person
