Rene Fuentes
San Francisco
Summary
Robotics Engineer Technician supporting autonomous vehicle operations through sensor calibration of 5+ sensor systems per week, CAN/Ethernet communications, and Linux scripting. Triages 5+ AV incidents per week in Jira, escalates system issues to engineering teams, and helps keep fleet performance stable during testing and software updates. Complete 100+ vehicle readiness checks per shift to support safe deployment and testing cycles. Trains 2+ team members per month and supports map-building work for new streets entering autonomy.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Robotics Engineer Technician
Sigma Design
12.2025 - Current
- Perform 40% fewer recurring hardware issues per week through structured diagnostics and root cause analysis.
- Complete 100+ vehicle readiness checks per shift to support safe deployment and testing cycles.
- Calibrate sensors and support autonomous system testing to verify reliable vehicle operation.
- Troubleshoot electrical and hardware issues to restore equipment function during active test cycles.
- Document test results, failures, and repair actions to support clearer maintenance tracking.
- Apply safety protocols consistently while working with robotic hardware, wiring, and testing equipment.
- Track software updates and verify system behavior after deployment to confirm stable operation.
- Inspect wiring, cables, and connectors to support dependable electrical performance across equipment.
- Use Linux terminal commands and logs to isolate system faults and confirm corrective actions.
- Support shift handoffs by recording open issues, completed work, and next steps for the team.
- Assist with fleet monitoring to flag readiness concerns and maintenance needs before testing.
- Coordinate parts tracking and inventory control to keep assemblies and repairs supplied.
- Handle shipping and receiving tasks to move hardware, parts, and materials through the lab.
- Perform multimeter testing and circuit checks to verify electrical continuity and component behavior.
- Support technical training by explaining basic procedures and safe equipment handling to teammates.
- Update incident records and issue tickets to keep repair work organized and traceable.
Robotics Technician
Meta
12.2025 - Current
- Resolve70+% of assigned tickets per week through timely triage, diagnostics, and clear handoff notes.
- Complete 25 robot system checks per shift and document findings for follow-up troubleshooting.
- Inspect robotic hardware for wear, loose connections, and setup issues before deployment.
- Calibrate sensors and verify alignment to support consistent robot performance.
- Perform routine vehicle readiness checks and report issues before field use.
- Test robot subsystems after repairs to confirm stable operation and safe return to service.
Autonomy operator
Zoox
San Francisco Bay Area
10.2022 - Current
- Support incident resolution time reduced 10% by logging diagnostics, reproducing faults, and routing updates to the right teams.
- Track 1 incidents per shift and escalate autonomy issues through Jira for engineering review.
- Calibrate critical sensors and verify CAN and Ethernet communication for reliable autonomous vehicle operation.
- Use Linux terminal scripting to streamline operational tasks and improve deployment efficiency.
- Deploy software updates across multiple states and validate successful implementation in live fleet operations.
- Train new team members on operating procedures, fleet readiness checks, and shift handoff expectations.
- Map new streets to support autonomous navigation and future autonomy expansion.
Equity Trader
Self-Employed
11.2020 - Current
- Execute 10 trades daily while applying disciplined entries, exits, and position sizing.
- Analyze market trends, financial data, and technical signals to identify trading opportunities.
- Apply fundamental analysis alongside technical indicators to support disciplined trading decisions.
- Assess downside exposure continuously and adjust positions to manage volatility and preserve capital.
- Track market shifts and adapt trading strategies to changing conditions throughout the session.
- Document trade rationale, performance patterns, and lessons learned to refine future execution.
Autonomy Operator Instructor
Cruise
San Francisco Bay Area
03.2024 - 11.2025
- Built 80% training completion rate by developing structured onboarding materials and certification support for new operators.
- Trained 15 autonomy operators per cohort on safe vehicle testing, operating procedures, and shift readiness.
- Developed comprehensive training programs covering autonomous vehicle technology and safety protocols.
- Provided Linux programming and troubleshooting support to improve operational reliability.
- Certified new and existing autonomy operators by reinforcing high standards for vehicle testing and safe execution.
- Reinforced safe work habits through direct coaching on operational quality, procedural compliance, and team accountability.
- Supported day-to-day autonomy operations by troubleshooting issues and maintaining readiness for vehicle testing.
Pitcrew Lead
Cruise
San Francisco Bay Area
03.2022 - 11.2023
- Maintained vehicle uptime 90% during launch support by starting vehicles from scratch and verifying readiness before deployment.
- Reduced incident resolution time by 10% through faster triage of vehicle startup and launch blockers.
- Loaded sleds into the back hard drive to start vehicles from scratch for launch readiness.
- Troubleshot vehicle hardware and software issues to support public launch operations.
- Applied root cause analysis to isolate recurring startup failures and speed corrective action.
- Improved operational efficiency through hands-on problem-solving in a fast-paced startup environment.
- Built technical proficiency in vehicle systems, QNX software, and Linux scripting while documenting issue patterns for future troubleshooting.
Driver
Amazon Prime
11.2020 - 07.2021
- Supported 136 delivery stops per shift by navigating routes carefully and adapting to obstacles.
- Loaded packages into delivery vans with teammates, keeping work areas organized and clean.
- Adapted to challenging routes and obstacles while maintaining reliable customer-focused delivery service.
- Maintained sanitation standards throughout loading and delivery activities to support safe daily operations.
Valet Attendant
California Parking Company
08.2019 - 02.2020
- Managed 30 vehicle moves per shift to keep parking flow organized and patrons moving efficiently.
- Delivered attentive customer service during special events, creating a smooth and organized experience for patrons.
- Coordinated vans, equipment, and event attire to support setup, readiness, and guest-facing operations.
- Adapted to the USF parking lot and fast-paced event demands while maintaining consistent teamwork and service quality.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Finance, General
Notre Dame de Namur University
Bachelor's Degree - Computational Science
Notre Dame de Namur University
05-2024
Skills
- Classroom instruction
- Program development
- Teaching
- Curriculum development
- Training program design
- Autonomy operations
- Sensor calibration
- Incident triage
- Linux scripting
- Jira issue tracking
- Robotics system testing
- Hardware troubleshooting
- Electrical diagnostics
- Assembly and calibration
- Technical documentation
Personal Information
Title: Robot Engineer Technician
Timeline
Robotics Engineer Technician
Sigma Design
12.2025 - Current
Robotics Technician
Meta
12.2025 - Current
Autonomy Operator Instructor
Cruise
03.2024 - 11.2025
Autonomy operator
Zoox
10.2022 - Current
Pitcrew Lead
Cruise
03.2022 - 11.2023
Equity Trader
Self-Employed
11.2020 - Current
Driver
Amazon Prime
11.2020 - 07.2021
Valet Attendant
California Parking Company
08.2019 - 02.2020
Bachelor's Degree - Computational Science
Notre Dame de Namur University
Bachelor's Degree - Finance, General
Notre Dame de Namur University