Mechanical Technician

Job Title:

Mechanical Technician

Job Description

This full-time Mechanical Technician role focuses on assembling and testing spacecraft hardware in a cleanroom environment. You will contribute to the build and integration of advanced propulsion systems and satellite components, including harness fabrication, PCB assembly, and environmental testing support. This position is ideal for someone who is passionate about space systems, enjoys hands-on mechanical and electrical work, and is eager to learn and grow within a close-knit, collaborative team.

Responsibilities

* Assemble spacecraft hardware and mechanical assemblies according to detailed drawings, blueprints, and written work instructions.

* Follow step-by-step guidelines to build electrical and mechanical assemblies and accurately document each stage of the build process.

* Assemble and solder components onto printed circuit boards (PCBs) in accordance with applicable standards.

* Perform soldering, crimping, and harness builds, including fabrication of wire harnesses and connectors for spacecraft systems.

* Install project-specific sensors such as thermistors and accelerometers on spacecraft hardware and test setups.

* Operate torque wrenches and other precision hand tools to achieve product specifications and maintain quality standards.

* Support propulsion module and spacecraft testing, including setup, execution, and teardown of test configurations.

* Assist in following spacecraft through environmental testing campaigns, including vibration, thermal, and vacuum testing activities.

* Work with engineers to troubleshoot hardware problems and support diagnostic activities on mechanical and electrical systems.

* Perform electronics testing and board repair as needed to ensure hardware meets performance and reliability requirements.

* Support non-conformance resolution by identifying issues, documenting findings, and assisting in implementing corrective actions.

* Use CAD drawing software, Visio, and Excel to review, interpret, and update documentation related to assemblies and tests.

* Apply troubleshooting and diagnostic processes to identify root causes of issues in assemblies and test setups.

* Handle and operate equipment in and around vacuum chambers as part of test and qualification activities.

* Communicate clearly with team members, providing written and verbal updates on build status, issues, and test outcomes.

* Manage time effectively to meet build schedules, test timelines, and project milestones in a fast-paced environment.

Essential Skills

* Strong mechanical aptitude with hands-on experience in mechanical assembly and precision work.

* Ability to read and follow engineering drawings, blueprints, and written instructions accurately.

* Experience with soldering, crimping, and harness builds for electrical and electronic assemblies.

* Proficiency in assembling and soldering components onto printed circuit boards (PCBs).

* Experience with electronics testing and board repair in a laboratory or production environment.

* Ability to operate torque wrenches and similar hand tools to precise product specifications.

* Familiarity with harness fabrication, including building harnesses and wire connectors.

* Experience working with fabrication and test processes for hardware systems.

* Knowledge of troubleshooting and diagnostic processes for mechanical and electrical hardware.

* Good written and verbal communication skills for documenting work and collaborating with engineers and technicians.

* Good time-management skills to handle multiple tasks and meet project deadlines.

* Comfort working with CAD drawing software, Visio, and Excel to support documentation and planning.

* Ability to work safely in a cleanroom environment, including handling delicate flight hardware.

* Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs and climb a 13-foot ladder as required by the role.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

* Experience with flight hardware in aerospace or related industries.

* Experience supporting propulsion modules and spacecraft testing activities.

* Experience with vacuum chambers and associated test setups.

* Experience with non-conformance resolution, including documentation and corrective actions.

* NASA certifications for soldering, crimping, and harnesses or the ability to obtain equivalent certifications.

* Ability to obtain IPC certifications for wire harnessing and soldering assemblies.

* Experience with board-level repair and rework in a production or R&D environment.

* Experience with electronics test equipment and diagnostic tools.

* Familiarity with CAD software for reviewing and interpreting mechanical and electrical designs.

* Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to work closely with engineers to resolve hardware issues.

* Demonstrated ability to follow verbal and written instructions precisely and consistently.

* Interest in and passion for space systems, satellites, and advanced propulsion technologies.

* Desire to continuously learn, improve, and expand skills in both…