Operations Technician

Job Title: Operations Technician (Field & Expedition Support)

Location: Arlington, VA

Salary: $60,000–$120,000+ (commensurate with experience)

Employment Type: Full-Time

About the Role

We’re seeking a hands-on, resourceful Operations Technician to support field-based experimentation, logistics, and equipment readiness for cutting-edge engineering and research operations. This role is ideal for someone with a practical background in engineering, logistics, or fieldwork who thrives in challenging, outdoor environments and enjoys problem-solving under pressure.

You’ll help plan and execute field experiments — including marine-based activities — ensuring teams are equipped, safe, and supported. If you're someone who can fix things in the field with a roll of duct tape, navigate logistics like a pro, and have a background in scuba diving, drones, robotics, or comms gear, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

Coordinate and support field expeditions (e.g. saltwater and jungle environments)

Manage day-trip logistics, safety plans, and team readiness for field-based testing

Assist engineers with equipment prep, charging, sourcing parts, and field fixes

Troubleshoot and maintain communications and mechanical systems in the field

Travel frequently to regional testing sites; occasional international travel expected as projects scale

Handle transport and delivery of critical equipment; mileage is reimbursed

Ideal Background

Practical experience in expeditions, logistics, or field-based R&D

Comfortable working outdoors in rugged conditions

Mechanically and technically inclined – can fix, adapt, or jerry-rig gear on the go

Background in engineering, robotics, drones, communications, or similar

Experience in maritime or oil & gas environments is a plus

Military, first responder, or field research background is a strong advantage

Valid driver’s license; local to the DC area

Bonus Skills

Experience with UAVs, UGVs, or autonomous systems

Photography / videography for field documentation

Linux familiarity or tech-savvy troubleshooting

Scuba certification, pilot’s license, or similar credentials are highly valued

Benefits & Compensation

Competitive base salary: $60k–$120k+, depending on experience

GSA mileage reimbursement for travel and personal vehicle use

100% health coverage for employee; 50% for dependents

Flexible PTO

No rigid hours — flexible, outcome-based work culture

ISO equity plan

5V Tech are acting as an Employment Agency for the purposes of this position. We offer a reward scheme if you can recommend someone for this position, up to $250 for you and an additional $250 to a charity of your choice, 5V Tech are recognised talent solutions experts within IoT and Deep Tech working across Europe, the UK and North America.