Production Technician

Production Technician
Lead hands-on assembly and testing of aerospace hardware to scale production
Location: San Francisco, California, United States

Compensation: $40 - 55 USD / hour

Job Tags: Hardware

About The Role
Astra's mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry's leading flight‑proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

As a Production Technician, you will support the assembly, integration, and test of aerospace hardware and subsystems used in spacecraft propulsion and launch vehicles. You will work from engineering documentation to build hardware, execute production tests, and support environmental and functional verification activities.

This is a highly hands‑on role requiring strong mechanical and electrical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot hardware in a dynamic manufacturing and test environment.

Assembly & Integration

Assemble mechanical and electro‑mechanical aerospace hardware from engineering drawings, work instructions, and schematics

Perform precision assembly using hand tools, torque tools, fixtures, and specialized equipment

Support harness installation, wiring, and basic soldering or fabrication tasks

Inspect components and assemblies to ensure compliance with quality and configuration requirements

Production Testing

Set up and operate production test equipment and fixtures

Execute functional and environmental tests following established procedures

Prepare hardware for test, including instrumentation and sensor installation

Monitor test operations and identify anomalies during test execution

Troubleshooting & Rework

Diagnose mechanical, electrical, and system‑level issues during assembly or testing

Perform corrective actions, rework, or component replacement as required

Work with engineers to identify root cause and implement corrective actions

Documentation & Data Collection

Record build and test data, logs, and checklists in accordance with company procedures

Maintain accurate production documentation and configuration control

Provide clear feedback to engineering on build or test issues

Equipment & Lab Support

Assist with setup and maintenance of production and test equipment including vacuum chambers, vibration tables, thermal cycling chambers, hi‑pot testers, and multimeters.

Support installation and upkeep of fixtures, instrumentation, and ground support equipment (GSE)

Maintain safe, clean, and organized workspaces consistent with FOD and cleanroom practices

Collaboration

Work closely with manufacturing engineers, test engineers, and quality teams

Support production ramp and continuous improvement initiatives

Communicate issues clearly to ensure hardware quality and schedule adherence

Why We Value You

High school diploma or GED required

Technical certification or associate degree in a related field preferred

3–6 years of hands‑on technician experience in aerospace, defense, or high‑reliability manufacturing

Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills

Experience assembling precision electro‑mechanical systems

Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and test procedures

Familiarity with test equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, pressure gauges, and data acquisition systems

Experience supporting hardware integration, functional testing, or environmental testing

Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand for extended periods

Ability to lift up to ~35 lbs

Ability to work with hardware in laboratory, cleanroom, or production environments

Desired Multipliers

Aerospace production or spacecraft hardware experience

Familiarity with cleanroom procedures, FOD control, or contamination control

Experience supporting environmental testing (vibration, thermal, vacuum, or shock)

Basic soldering, wiring, or harness fabrication skills

Experience with pressure systems, vacuum systems, or propulsion hardware

Forklift or crane operation certification

The pay range for this role is: $40-55/hr

Salary and Benefits
We're competitive in compensation and offer equity as part of the package. We have great benefits that include health, vision, dental, and 401K in comparison to other startups. We provide lunch and there's plenty of snacks and drinks to get you through the day.

Disability Accommodation
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

ITAR Requirements
This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant's status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicant's ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.

EEO Statement
Copyright Astra Space Operations, LLC. All rights reserved, Astra is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We encourage people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives to apply.

San Francisco Fair Chance
San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

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