Assembly & Prototyping Technician

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Assembly & Prototyping Technician Company: Monumental Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands Job Type: Full-Time Category: Operations & Technical Assembly Date Posted: December 23, 2025 Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Entry-Level to Junior) Remote Status: On-site (5 days a week in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the hands-on fabrication and assembly of advanced robotics prototypes and small production series for construction automation.
• Key responsibilities include maintaining the operational readiness of the existing robot fleet and contributing to design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) feedback.
• The technician will work collaboratively with hardware and software engineering teams to bring novel robotic solutions to life in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Emphasis is placed on developing efficient assembly processes, ensuring quality control, and actively participating in testing and on-site deployment support.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Assembly & Prototyping Technician," the core responsibilities and emphasis on collaboration with engineering teams indicate a role that bridges technical assembly with early-stage product development and operational support within a high-tech, R&D-intensive environment. This is not a typical manufacturing line role but rather a crucial part of the product realization lifecycle.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Fabricate and assemble Research & Development (R&D) prototypes, including end-effectors, autonomous ground vehicles, and robotic cranes, based on engineering designs.
• Perform regular maintenance, health checks, and necessary repairs on the current fleet of construction robots to ensure optimal operational status.
• Assist in setting up and operating construction robots and building testing rigs within the office facility.
• Provide on-site support at construction sites, assisting with robot deployment and operational needs as required.
• Contribute to the improvement of designs for small series production by planning builds, providing DFM/DFA feedback to the engineering team, and executing assembly processes.
• Actively identify and implement process improvements to increase assembly speed and efficiency for future builds.
• Uphold and promote a safe, clean, and organized working environment within the workshop and testing facilities.
• Collaborate closely with hardware and software engineers to troubleshoot issues and refine robotic systems.
• Read and interpret bills of materials (BOMs), organize and procure necessary parts and off-the-shelf components for assemblies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct assembly, maintenance, R&D support, and operational field assistance. The role requires an individual who can operate with a degree of autonomy in prototyping while also meticulously following procedures for production-like builds and maintenance. The emphasis on DFM/DFA feedback suggests a proactive role in product iteration.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a technical background or vocational training in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, electrical engineering, or a related field is highly beneficial.
• Demonstrated practical knowledge gained through hands-on experience or relevant certifications will be strongly considered.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of hands-on experience in assembly, fabrication, or a technical technician role, particularly within an R&D or engineering context.
• Experience working with mechanical components, tools, and materials, including comfort with metalworking tools like angle grinders.

Required Skills:

• Assembly Proficiency: Comfortable sequencing and executing complex assemblies with limited initial documentation.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Hands-on experience working with metals, tools, and mechanical components.
• Attention to Detail: High degree of precision and ability to identify errors in own and others' work.
• Communication Skills: Ability to effectively discuss designs, provide feedback, and collaborate with engineering teams.
• Organizational Skills: Efficient and organized approach to managing projects, parts, and workspace.
• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for identifying and resolving assembly-related challenges.
• Procedure Adherence: Understanding and application of procedures for tasks like bolt selection and torque specifications.
• Component Sourcing: Ability to read BOMs and organize/collect necessary parts.
• Safety Awareness: Commitment to maintaining a safe and organized work environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with robotic systems or automated machinery.
• Familiarity with basic machining or fabrication techniques.
• Understanding of DFM/DFA principles.
• Experience in a startup or fast-paced R&D environment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings or schematics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical, hands-on skills and a proactive, detail-oriented mindset over formal education. The "0-2 years" experience level indicates a strong openness to candidates who can demonstrate potential and a willingness to learn, especially those with a strong mechanical intuition and collaborative spirit.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of complex assemblies or prototypes you have personally built or significantly contributed to.
• Demonstrate your process for organizing parts, managing workflows, and ensuring quality during assembly.
• Include visual documentation (photos, videos) of your work, highlighting neatness, precision, and functional outcomes.
• Provide evidence of how you've provided feedback on designs to improve manufacturability or assembly efficiency.
• Quantify improvements where possible, e.g., "reduced assembly time by X%" or "identified Y critical design flaws."

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your systematic approach to tackling new assembly projects, from understanding requirements to final checks.
• Highlight your methods for ensuring accuracy and repeatability in assembly processes, especially when moving from prototype to small-series production.
• Explain how you would document assembly steps, identify potential failure points, and contribute to standard operating procedures (SOPs).

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal "portfolio" requirement, the job description strongly implies that candidates will need to demonstrate their practical skills and problem-solving abilities. A well-curated collection of past projects, detailing the challenges faced and solutions implemented, will be crucial for showcasing suitability. The emphasis on "how you could do it 10 times faster" suggests a portfolio that highlights efficiency improvements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Assembly & Prototyping Technicians with 0-2 years of experience in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Monumental likely offers a competitive salary in the range of €28,000 to €38,000 per year (gross).
• This estimate considers the cost of living in Amsterdam, the specialized nature of robotics and construction technology, and Monumental's status as a well-funded, high-growth startup.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive health insurance package.
• Retirement Savings: Contribution to a pension scheme.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days and public holidays.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and learning new technologies relevant to robotics and construction automation.
• Office Perks: Access to a well-equipped in-house workshop, testing facilities, and a vibrant office environment near Artis zoo.
• Team Events: Regular team lunches, social gatherings, and company events.
• Innovative Environment: Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and contribute to a groundbreaking mission.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically around 40 hours per week.
• The role is on-site, requiring a commitment to working 5 days a week at the Amsterdam office. Flexibility may be available within the standard workday, but the core expectation is consistent on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary figures are estimates based on general market data for the specified role and location. Specific compensation will depend on the candidate's exact experience, skills, and qualifications. The benefits package is assumed to be competitive for a tech startup in the Netherlands.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Robotics, Construction Technology, Automation Software Company Size: Approximately 100 team members. This indicates a dynamic, growing startup environment where individual contributions have a significant impact. Founded: Monumental was founded with a mission to revolutionize construction through robotics and software, aiming for single-day building construction with minimal labor.

Team Structure:

• The company is composed primarily of engineers and technicians, with experience drawn from prominent tech companies.
• The Assembly & Prototyping Technician will be part of the machine shop team, working closely with hardware and software engineering teams.
• Reporting likely goes to a Machine Shop Lead or Engineering Manager, with direct collaboration across various engineering disciplines.
• Cross-functional collaboration is a core tenet, with daily interaction expected between assembly, R&D, and software teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Innovation: Expect a culture that values empirical evidence, testing, and iterative improvement based on data.
• Agile Development: The fast-paced environment suggests an agile approach to prototyping, testing, and deployment, prioritizing rapid iteration and learning.
• Collaborative Problem-Solving: Complex challenges are tackled through collective intelligence and open discussion among team members.
• Efficiency Focus: A strong emphasis on optimizing processes, from assembly to construction, is embedded in the company's DNA.

Company Website: https://www.monumental.co/

📝 Enhancement Note: Monumental positions itself as a mission-driven, technically advanced startup. The culture is described as collaborative, fast-paced, and focused on innovation, particularly appealing to individuals who enjoy hands-on work and solving complex, real-world problems. The explicit "not hybrid or remote-first" stance underscores the importance of in-person collaboration.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level to Junior Technician (0-2 Years Experience). This role is designed for individuals starting their careers or transitioning into a more specialized technical assembly role. It offers a foundational position within a cutting-edge industry.

Reporting Structure: The technician will likely report to a Machine Shop Supervisor or a Lead Hardware Engineer. They will work closely with a diverse team of mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, software developers, and fellow technicians. This structure facilitates direct learning from experienced professionals and exposure to various facets of robotic development.

Operations Impact: As an Assembly & Prototyping Technician, your direct impact will be on the tangible creation and functional readiness of Monumental's robotic systems. Your meticulous assembly, effective maintenance, and insightful feedback on designs directly influence the speed of R&D cycles, the reliability of operational robots, and the efficiency of production scale-up. This role is critical in translating innovative concepts into functional hardware that drives the company's mission forward.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in mechanical assembly, robotics maintenance, and potentially fabrication techniques.
• Cross-Functional Learning: Exposure to hardware design, software integration, and on-site construction operations, allowing for broad technical development.
• Process Improvement Leadership: As expertise grows, the ability to lead initiatives in optimizing assembly workflows and implementing new technician processes.
• Advanced Prototyping: Progression to more complex prototyping tasks and potentially contributing to early-stage design input based on extensive hands-on experience.
• Team Leadership: Potential to mentor junior technicians as the team expands.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant growth potential within a rapidly evolving field. The emphasis on learning and iterative improvement within a startup environment means that motivated individuals can gain broad experience and advance their careers by demonstrating initiative and technical capability.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Monumental operates from a modern office space in the Plantage neighborhood of Amsterdam, which includes an in-house workshop and robot testing facility. This environment is designed for hands-on work and close collaboration.

Office Location(s): The office is located near Artis Zoo in Amsterdam, Netherlands, easily accessible within the city center. This location is convenient for commuting within Amsterdam.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office is explicitly designed for 5-day-a-week in-person collaboration, fostering spontaneous idea exchange and teamwork between engineers and technicians.
• Advanced Facilities: Access to a fully equipped workshop with tools, testing rigs, and robotics infrastructure is a key feature.
• Dynamic Atmosphere: Expect a fast-paced, energetic atmosphere typical of a high-growth tech startup, where innovation and problem-solving are daily activities.
• Direct Interaction: Frequent interaction with engineering teams and exposure to the company's robotic hardware in development and testing.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with core working hours expected at the Amsterdam office. While the company emphasizes on-site collaboration, there may be some flexibility within the standard workday. The primary requirement is consistent physical presence to facilitate hands-on work and team interaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The commitment to a 5-day on-site work arrangement is a defining characteristic of Monumental's work environment. This is ideal for individuals who thrive in collaborative, hands-on settings and value direct interaction with colleagues and technology.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and any submitted portfolio materials to assess basic qualifications and alignment with the role.
2. Technical Interview (On-site): This will likely involve a hands-on assessment or discussion of your experience with assembly, tools, and problem-solving. You may be asked to demonstrate your approach to a hypothetical assembly task or discuss past projects in detail.
3. Team/Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your collaborative skills, problem-solving approach, cultural fit, and motivation for joining Monumental. This is where you can elaborate on your portfolio and specific contributions.
4. Final Interview: Potentially with a founder or senior leadership, to discuss your long-term potential and alignment with the company's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Prioritize visual evidence – clear photos and videos of your work are essential.
• Narrate Your Process: For each project, explain the problem, your role, the steps you took, challenges encountered, and the solution or outcome.
• Highlight Efficiency: Specifically address how you improved processes or made assemblies faster/more efficient, aligning with the company's ethos.
• Demonstrate Detail Orientation: Showcase examples where your attention to detail prevented errors or improved quality.
• Quantify Impact: If possible, use data to support your claims (e.g., "reduced assembly time by 15%").
• Tailor to Monumental: Emphasize projects involving complex assemblies, R&D, or where you provided design feedback, relevant to robotics and construction.

Challenge Preparation:

• Assembly Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical assembly challenges, how you'd approach them, and what questions you'd ask engineers.
• Tool Familiarity: Be ready to discuss your experience with various hand tools, power tools, and potentially measurement devices.
• Troubleshooting: Think about common issues in assembly and how you'd diagnose and resolve them.
• Process Improvement Mindset: Practice articulating how you'd optimize an existing assembly process for speed and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on an on-site interview and the implied need for portfolio demonstration suggests that Monumental values practical skills and the ability to articulate one's process. Candidates should be ready to discuss their hands-on experience and problem-solving approach in detail, supported by visual evidence if possible.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand & Power Tools: A comprehensive range of mechanical tools, including wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, drills, and power tools such as angle grinders.
• Measurement Tools: Calipers, micrometers, tape measures, and potentially more advanced metrology equipment.
• Assembly Workstations: Ergonomically designed benches and workstations for efficient assembly.
• Material Handling Equipment: Possibly including dollies, pallet jacks, or small cranes for moving larger components.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BOM Management Software: Potentially used for tracking components and inventory.
• Project Management Tools: Such as Asana, Trello, or Jira, for task tracking and workflow management.
• Documentation Software: For creating and referencing assembly guides, maintenance logs, and DFM/DFA feedback reports (e.g., Google Workspace, Confluence).

CRM & Automation:

• Inventory Management Systems: To track parts and components.
• Basic CAD Software (Viewing): May need to view 2D drawings or basic 3D models from engineers.
• Communication Platforms: Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar for real-time team communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily weighted towards practical, physical tools and workshop equipment. While software is used for communication and project management, the core of the role is hands-on with mechanical systems. Familiarity with viewing CAD drawings could be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Ambition: A drive to push boundaries and redefine industry standards through novel technological solutions.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A belief that complex problems are best solved collectively, fostering an environment of open communication and mutual support.
• Efficiency & Optimization: A constant pursuit of speed, accuracy, and resourcefulness in all processes, from assembly to construction.
• Quality & Precision: A commitment to high standards in fabrication and assembly, ensuring the reliability and performance of robotic systems.
• Safety First: A non-negotiable dedication to maintaining a safe working environment for all team members.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-on & Iterative: Collaboration involves direct, in-person interaction, often with engineers and technicians working side-by-side on prototypes and problem-solving.
• Direct Feedback Loop: Engineers and technicians are encouraged to provide immediate, constructive feedback on designs and processes to facilitate rapid iteration.
• Cross-Functional Integration: Seamless integration between assembly, R&D, and software teams to ensure holistic development of robotic solutions.
• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes learning from each other and sharing insights gained through hands-on experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Monumental's culture is built around ambitious goals, collaborative problem-solving, and a relentless focus on efficiency and quality. The values align with a fast-paced, innovative startup environment where individuals are empowered to contribute directly to the company's groundbreaking mission.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Iteration Cycles: Working with evolving designs and prototypes means adapting quickly to changes and new requirements.
• Complexity of Robotics: Assembling intricate robotic systems requires meticulous attention to detail and problem-solving skills for unique challenges.
• Balancing Prototype Speed with Quality: The need to build quickly for R&D while ensuring robust and reliable assemblies.
• On-Site Deployment Support: Occasionally transitioning from the workshop to dynamic and potentially demanding construction site environments.
• Learning New Technologies: Continuously acquiring knowledge of new robotic components, systems, and assembly techniques.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on Robotics Expertise: Gaining in-depth practical experience with state-of-the-art construction robotics.
• Exposure to Engineering Disciplines: Learning directly from experienced mechanical, electrical, and software engineers.
• Process Optimization Skills: Developing methodologies for improving assembly efficiency and quality control.
• Industry Insight: Understanding the unique challenges and innovations within the construction technology sector.
• Potential for Advanced Roles: As the company scales, opportunities may arise for specialization in areas like advanced prototyping, automation integration, or team leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are opportunities for growth. Monumental offers a rich environment for individuals eager to learn, adapt, and contribute to cutting-edge technology in a mission-critical industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to assemble a complex mechanical system with incomplete instructions. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your problem-solving, resourcefulness, and documentation approach.)
• "How do you ensure quality and accuracy in your assembly work, especially when working under time pressure?" (Highlight your attention to detail, process adherence, and quality checks.)
• "Imagine you're asked to build a new end-effector prototype. What would be your first steps, and how would you collaborate with the engineering team?" (Demonstrate your understanding of R&D processes and communication skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Monumental's mission to automate construction, and why this role specifically?" (Connect your skills and passion to the company's vision.)
• "Describe your ideal work environment. How do you thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative setting?" (Emphasize your comfort with on-site work and teamwork.)
• "How do you provide constructive feedback to engineers on their designs?" (Show your proactive approach to DFM/DFA.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation: Start with an overview of Monumental's mission, then present 2-3 key projects that best showcase your assembly, problem-solving, and process improvement skills.
• Visuals are key: Use clear photos and videos of your work. For each project, walk through the challenge, your process, and the results.
• Quantify where possible: Highlight any instances where you improved efficiency or quality.
• Focus on collaboration: Explain how you worked with others, especially engineers, to achieve project goals.
• Address the "10x faster" mindset: Be ready to discuss how you think about optimizing workflows and making processes more efficient.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss your practical experience in detail, using specific examples from your past work. Your ability to articulate your process, demonstrate attention to detail, and show enthusiasm for Monumental's mission will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Ashby.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight hands-on assembly experience, mechanical skills, problem-solving abilities, and any experience with prototyping or R&D environments. Use keywords from the job description.
• Portfolio Preparation: Gather photos or videos of your past assembly projects. Be ready to discuss your process, challenges, and solutions in detail. If you have any documentation on process improvements you've made, include it.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself thoroughly with Monumental's mission, technology, and company culture. Understand their vision for construction automation and why they emphasize on-site collaboration.
• Interview Practice: Practice answering common technical and behavioral interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your practical skills, attention to detail, and collaborative mindset. Be ready to walk through your portfolio confidently.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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