Every solar and wind power plant is a latent data center. Rune connects wasted power to the compute that needs it. Solar plants generate electricity the grid can't take: clipped by inverters, curtailed by operators, gone before it ever reaches a meter. Meanwhile, AI needs more power than new construction can deliver in time. Rune deploys hardware, software, and financial solutions to put this power to work. We build modular micro data centers that install directly at solar sites, bypassing the traditional grid entirely and turning stranded power into compute. We're backed by Spark Capital, Union Square Ventures, and Lowercarbon Capital.
The Role:
As an HVAC Technician at Rune, you will build and maintain the thermal management systems that keep our RELIC units running, while contributing across the full assembly of the build - mechanical assembly, electrical, and quality control. This role combines hands-on refrigeration and cooling work with production assembly, and requires exceptional attention to detail and disciplined work around energized systems. The role is based in Mountain View, CA, with regular travel to deployment sites.
Key Responsibilities:
Install and commission cooling systems for high-density compute enclosures, including refrigerant charging, vacuum testing, leak detection, and performance verification. Route piping systems - including brazing, fitting, insulating, and pressure testing lines for refrigerant and coolant loops. Travel to deployment sites to support commissioning, startup, service, and troubleshooting of installed units. Assemble mechanical, electrical, and network systems for modular computing and power infrastructure, including sheet metal assemblies, electrical enclosures, and server hardware. Install and integrate servers, power distribution equipment, network switches, fiber optic infrastructure, cable management systems, and associated hardware into production assemblies. Route, terminate, label, and organize power, network, and fiber optic cabling to produce clean, serviceable, and reliable installations that meet company standards. Perform mechanical assembly of custom brackets, mounting systems, and prototype hardware while collaborating with engineering to develop practical assembly solutions for new products. Manage assembly materials, hardware, and workstations to maintain an organized, efficient, and production-ready environment throughout the build process. Verify completed assemblies through visual inspection, functional checks, and basic troubleshooting to ensure products meet quality and workmanship expectations before deployment.
Requirements:
Hands-on experience with automotive or residential cooling systems, including refrigerant charging, vacuum testing, leak checking, and troubleshooting. Familiarity with the repair and assembly of piping systems, including fittings, joining methods, and pressure/leak testing. Strong mechanical aptitude with experience using hand tools and power tools. Willingness and ability to travel to project sites as needed, including multi-day trips ( approximately 20% travel ).
Ideal Qualifications:
Experience assembling mechanical and electrical systems in an R&D setting (automotive, robotics, HVAC, high-power electronics, etc.) with a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Experience mounting and installing mechanical hardware, including brackets, cable management, DIN rail, electrical enclosures, and custom assemblies. Electrical assembly experience including wire stripping, crimping, terminating, labeling, and routing wiring using industry best practices. Working knowledge of electrical safety practices, including safe work around energized systems, proper use of PPE, and lockout/tagout procedures. Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills, including tracing electrical faults, identifying wiring issues, and resolving mechanical or assembly problems. Comfortable supporting product development by identifying practical improvements to assembly methods, hardware selection, and overall manufacturability. Resourceful and self-motivated with the ability to solve problems, adapt to changing project requirements, and support a fast-paced engineering environment. Takes pride in producing clean, organized, and high-quality assemblies while maintaining a safe and professional work environment. Rune is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
