The RoleYou'll be at the heart of bringing flight hardware to life. You will own Surface Mount Technology (SMT) equipment and processes, working closely with production teams to support development and production of the K2 Mega-class satellite. You will shape build processes and solve hands-on manufacturing challenges in real time, and your work will directly impact the performance and reliability of hardware destined for space.
This role is built for someone who learns quickly, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and wants to take ownership early. You'll develop deep technical intuition, contribute to systems that scale, and grow into increasingly complex challenges as we push towards higher-rate production in an environment unlike anywhere else.
Responsibilities - Develop, support, and continuously improve SMT assembly equipment and processes, including but not limited to: pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, solder paste printers, solder paste inspection (SPI), automated optical inspection (AOI), X-ray, conformal coating systems, epoxy/adhesive dispensers, and lamination equipment
- Develop and optimize reflow profiles, stencil designs, and solder paste processes to achieve high first-pass yield on complex, high-reliability assemblies
- Program, operate, and troubleshoot automated SMT equipment, including placement programs, feeder setups, and vision/inspection systems
- Work closely with Quality and Production teams to maintain build cadence and ensure hardware meets acceptance criteria.
- Create and maintain work instructions, assembly procedures, and process documentation, and capture as-built records and traceability through the MES
- Develop inspection criteria and methods for assemblies for non-conformances.
- Develop functional tests of components and assemblies
- Monitor process performance (yield, defect trends, SPC) and provide consistent process improvement feedback to engineering and production leadership
- Support tooling inspection, maintenance, and readiness activities for solar manufacturing operations
Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace, materials or other relevant engineering discipline
- 2+ years of experience in a high-volume manufacturing, production, or hands-on engineering environment
- Strong hands-on aptitude and willingness to work directly with hardware on the production floor
- Exposure to precision assembly or electromechanical integration processes
- Ability to read engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation
- Experience setting up a manufacturing/production floor for first article builds
Nice to Have - Hand soldering ability and PCB rework experience
- Ability to read, review, and redline electrical schematics and mechanical drawings
- Experience performing crimping, wire stripping, continuity testing
- Experience using test and measuring tools (digital multimeter, oscilloscopes, calipers)
- Experience with various potting and epoxies
- Strong communication skills with ability to communicate hardware and systems problems
Additional Requirements - Must be able to stand for extended periods of time
- Must be able to lift and carry parts or equipment up to 50 lbs. Unassisted
Compensation and Benefits: - Base salary range for this role is $100,000 - $140,000 + equity in the company
- Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level
- Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision/ coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks
If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged!
If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know.
