Production Vacuum Test Technician
San Francisco Bay Area

This is a launch and propulsion company with hardware already in orbit. They offer one of the lowest cost per launch dedicated orbital services, alongside a flight proven electric propulsion system for satellites.

The test team verifies that flight hardware will operate in space. They also build and run the facilities that make that possible, simulating high vacuum, thermal, vibration and shock conditions in house.

Thruster module production is moving to high throughput, with development testing running alongside it for new programmes.

You would be one of two technicians joining that team.

What you will do

• Safely operate and monitor thermal vacuum systems, holding pressure, cleanliness and thermal control to mission requirements
• Set up, run and tear down propulsion system tests across thrusters, feed systems and support electronics
• Diagnose and fix problems with test hardware, instrumentation and vacuum systems live during test operations
• Build mechanical and electrical test setups from engineering drawings and schematics
• Maintain and troubleshoot vacuum hardware, pumps and instrumentation
• Work to safety protocols around high voltage, pressure systems and hazardous materials
• Log data, complete checklists and document procedures and outcomes
• Work closely with test engineers, software developers and manufacturing technicians

Who this suits

• Someone with 2 or more years hands on in test labs, or with vacuum systems, mechanical assemblies or high voltage systems
• A proven troubleshooter across electrical, mechanical or vacuum systems, comfortable with multimeters, pressure gauges and basic schematics and drawings
• Someone who has operated or supported vacuum chamber testing, ideally in space or aerospace
• Someone who takes pride in detailed work and will work evenings or weekends when a test campaign needs it
• Useful extras: thruster or propulsion testing, cleanroom and contamination control, soldering and wiring, pressure systems, cryogenics or high voltage safety

What you get

$40 to $50 per hour. Hands on work with flight hardware, on a test floor the team owns and operates itself. You do not need to tick every line above to apply. This role is subject to ITAR and EAR, so it is contingent on US Person status or the ability to obtain the relevant trade licence.

Apply

Send your CV through this advert and we’ll come back to you with the full company details and next steps. Darwin Space is a specialist space industry recruitment firm working exclusively on this vacancy. All applications are treated in confidence.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Adam Slade