Floe - Mechatronics Technician in Buffalo, New York at 43North

About Floe:Floe is a rapidly growing startup that has developed the smart, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution for managing hazardous ice and snow on roofs and around the building envelope. Compared to existing solutions, our automated system safely and effectively addresses dangerous buildup while reducing operating costs by >40% and carbon emissions by >99%. Originally spun out of MIT and Yale and tested with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Floe has been validated at dozens of sites in some of the world’s harshest winter environments. Our technology is trusted by major national retailers, state governments, and large commercial and residential property owners across the US and Canada. As we scale rapidly and expand into new verticals, we are building a team of talented, mission-driven people who value impact, precision, and integrity. Our team thrives in a fast-paced, innovative environment and has an excellent results-oriented track record. We are eager to recruit individuals who are driven, thoughtful problem-solvers and who bring diverse perspectives to our mission. About the Role:Floe is preparing to bring elements of console assembly, refurbishment, and project-specific builds in-house in Buffalo as we scale operations. We are looking for an exceptional technician and builder who takes pride in craftsmanship and enjoys working with physical systems.
This is a hands-on role focused on assembling Floe’s ETL- and FCC-certified consoles, supporting RMA refurbishment, and helping establish the processes and quality systems needed for repeatable, high-quality builds. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys building things the right way, notices inefficiencies, and wants to help shape early manufacturing operations. Initial involvement may be project-based, part-time, or flexible, with the opportunity to transition into a full-time role as production scales. Responsibilities:Assembly & Build

• Assemble Floe consoles, including electrical wiring, component installation, and mechanical integration.
• Execute builds with a high standard of quality, consistency, and attention to detail.
• Follow and refine assembly procedures as systems evolve.

Refurbishment & RMAs

• Diagnose, repair, and refurbish returned systems.
• Identify recurring issues and help inform product and design improvements.

Quality & Testing

• Perform functional testing and validation of assembled systems.
• Support the development and execution of QC checklists, metrics, and systems.
• Maintain build records, traceability, and documentation to support ETL/FCC requirements and future ISO initiatives.

Process & Manufacturing Support

• Help define and improve assembly workflows and workstation setups.
• Contribute to SOP creation, process documentation, and quality procedures.
• Recommend tooling, layout, and operational improvements to increase efficiency and consistency.

Tooling, Fabrication & Shop Equipment

• Safely operate and maintain common shop tools and light fabrication equipment used in assembly and prototyping.
• Support basic machining, drilling, cutting, and fabrication tasks as needed for console assembly, fixtures, and prototype development.
• Help organize and maintain a safe, functional, and efficient shop environment, including tooling, workstations, and equipment.
• Assist in identifying tooling or equipment needs to improve build quality, repeatability, and efficiency.

Kits, Inventory & Shop Operations

• Assemble and kit tubing and hardware packages for deployments.
• Support inventory organization, staging, and materials handling.
• Assist with packaging, shipping preparation, and general shop support.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with engineering to translate designs into reliable, repeatable builds.
• Provide practical feedback to improve manufacturability, durability, and field performance.
• Support early operational infrastructure as Floe builds in-house manufacturing capability in Buffalo.
• Support other hands-on company initiatives as needed, including internal R&D efforts, prototype builds, marketing demonstrations, field support activities, and shop-related projects.
• Assist with preparing systems, materials, and setups for testing, pilot deployments, and product validation.

Contribute to practical problem-solving across the organization as new operational needs emerge.

Qualifications:Education & Experience

• Experience in mechanical, electrical, or technical assembly environments.
• Background in manufacturing, installation, fabrication, HVAC, controls, robotics, automotive, or related hands-on technical fields is helpful but not required.
• Demonstrated ability to build, troubleshoot, and work with physical systems.

Technical Skills

• Comfort working with electrical wiring, mechanical components, and technical tools.
• Ability to follow technical instructions, diagrams, and procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to build quality.
• Familiarity with testing, documentation, or quality processes is a plus.

Problem-Solving & Execution

• Strong hands-on troubleshooting and practical problem-solving ability.
• Ability to identify inefficiencies and suggest process improvements.
• Reliable, organized, and capable of executing work with minimal supervision.

Working Style & Communication

• Takes pride in craftsmanship and high-quality work.
• Comfortable working in evolving, early-stage operational environments.
• Strong sense of ownership, accountability, and integrity.
• Clear communicator who can collaborate with engineers, installers, and operations teams.
• Willingness to support occasional field, R&D, or deployment-related activities as needed.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a hands-on shop environment.

This is an in-person position based in Buffalo, NY. Compensation for this role will be commensurate with experience, skills, education, and location. While ideally looking to hire this position full-time, we are also open to considering candidates on a contract basis with the potential to transition into FTE over time. How to Apply:Please send a resume and a short note describing your interest and relevant experiences to both nick@43north.org and recruiting@floesafe.com. If available, please also include 1–2 examples of products, systems, or projects you have worked on. Floe Inc is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. The company shall not discriminate against any applicant because of race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity (except where gender is a bona fide occupational qualification), national origin, age, disability, military/veteran status, marital status, genetic information, or any other factor protected by law. We are committed to equal employment opportunity in all decisions related to employment, promotion, wages, benefits and all other privileges, terms, and conditions of employment or engagement.
CompensationThe base pay range for this role is $35,000 – $75,000 per year.