Electronics Technician

Caltech is a world‑renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

The Caltech Space Radiation Laboratory (SRL) in Pasadena, CA, seeks a highly motivated and skilled Electronics Technician to support the engineering team in the fabrication, assembly, and testing of electronic hardware for the NASA Ultraviolet Explorer (UVEX) mission. This is a hands‑on position that focuses on printed circuit board (PCB) assembly, test setup, and operation of prototype and flight electronics. SRL provides a dynamic and inclusive work environment that emphasizes teamwork in pursuit of scientific discovery.

SRL, part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).), partners with NASA, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL, operated for NASA by Caltech), and the Space Sciences Laboratory (SSL) at UC‑Berkeley on UVEX.

• Assemble and rework prototype, engineering, and flight custom printed circuit boards (PCBs) and wire harnesses.
• Build and test electronic assemblies, including chassis, circuit boards, and cables.
• Procure supplies and materials. Maintain parts inventory.
• Coordinate with internal shops, external vendors, and fabrication facilities.
• Assist in developing test procedures and execute associated testing and measurement activities.
• Document system designs, board travelers, test procedures, measurements, and results.
• Collaborate effectively with cross‑disciplinary teams while working independently with minimal supervision when appropriate.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Education:
  
  High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience:
  
  minimum of 1 year of hands‑on experience in electronic assembly, soldering, inspection, cleaning, and repair.
• Soldering Proficiency:
  Demonstrated ability to solder fine‑pitch surface‑mount components, perform PCB rework, and assemble wire harnesses.
• Testing & Troubleshooting:
  Experience using electronic test equipment, including multimeters, oscilloscopes, and power supplies, to troubleshoot and verify electronic assemblies.
• Quality Assurance:
  Ability to inspect solder joints and electronic assemblies using magnification tools and microscopes, perform required touch‑ups or rework, and follow cable safe‑to‑mate procedures.
• Documentation & Assembly:
  Ability to read and interpret schematics, wiring diagrams, and assembly drawings; follow written procedures; and accurately document work performed and test results.
• Laboratory Environment:
  Ability to work in a cleanroom environment while following ESD and contamination control protocols, gowning procedures, and handling requirements for sensitive flight hardware.

• Education:
  
  An Associate's degree or technical certification in Electronics Technology.
• Experience:
  
  At least 5 years of hands‑on experience in electronic assembly, soldering, inspection, cleaning, and repair.
• Certifications:
  
  Previous or current Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) certification. Previous or current IPC J-STD-001 or IPC-A-610 certification. Familiarity with spaceflight workmanship standards, including J-STD-001ES and NASA-STD-8739, is highly desirable.
• Proficiency with basic software tools:
  Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

• Resume.

$27.75 - $32.00 Per Hour

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non‑benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite…