Investment Associate / Fellow – Hard Tech, Deep Tech

Clera

Investment Associate / Fellow in a venture capital firm focused on hard tech startups. Involves leading technical diligence and building networks in the hard tech ecosystem.

Posted 8/1/2026full-timeLos Angeles • California • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $120,000 - $180,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates a strong technical background in engineering, physics, or robotics, with the ability to conduct rigorous technical diligence and synthesize insights into clear investment narratives. Possesses a deep network in the hard tech and defense sectors, along with excellent communication skills to represent the firm effectively.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Technical DiligenceInvestment Decision-MakingTechnical CommunicationHard Tech ExpertiseOutbound Sourcing

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

EngineeringPhysicsRoboticsTechnical Due DiligenceMarket AnalysisInvestment Memo SynthesisComplex Claim EvaluationData AnalysisTechnical Insight SynthesisAerospace Technology

Soft Skills

Excellent CommunicationSelf-Directed Work StyleCuriosityNetworkingConviction Development

Industry Keywords

Hard TechDefense TechnologyDronesAdvanced ManufacturingElectric VehiclesAutonomous SystemsAI-Driven Field AutonomyCommercial Space LaunchIndustrial RoboticsPrecision Machining

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead **technical diligence** on hard tech investment opportunities across areas such as drones, defense, robotics, propulsion, manufacturing, and industrial automation
Run **outbound sourcing** — identify and engage promising founders before they're widely known
Meet founders daily, develop conviction on early-stage companies, and contribute to investment decisions
Build and maintain a deep network across the hard tech and defense-adjacent startup ecosystem
Synthesize technical and market insights into clear investment memos and recommendations
Represent the firm at events, conferences, and within technical communities

Requirements

What you’ll need

Strong **technical background** — engineering, physics, aerospace, robotics, or a related hard science/engineering discipline
Genuine curiosity about and passion for hard tech: defense, drones, robotics, space, advanced manufacturing, and industrial technology
Ability to evaluate complex technical claims and conduct rigorous engineering or scientific due diligence
Excellent written and verbal communication — you can turn technical depth into a clear investment narrative
High agency, self-directed work style; comfortable operating with minimal structure
**Strongly preferred — experience at or deep familiarity with companies in sectors such as:**
- Commercial space launch, satellite, or orbital logistics
- Defense technology, autonomous systems, or directed energy
- Advanced manufacturing, precision machining, or industrial robotics
- Electric vehicles, alternative propulsion, or energy systems
- AI-driven field autonomy or mission-critical software
Candidates with 2–5 years of experience at hard tech startups or established aerospace/defense technology companies are particularly encouraged to apply.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Full-time, two-year term position
Visa sponsorship is **not available**