Development Technician

Location: United States, Onsite
Compensation: 50.00 to 60.00 USD per hour, plus benefits
Onsite role supporting rocket build and test operations

Darwin Space are partnered with an exciting space company who are developing next generation launch vehicles. They are expanding their Vehicle Team with Development Technicians who will support the hands on fabrication, assembly and testing of critical rocket structures and components.

Their Vehicle Team oversees the complete lifecycle of core rocket hardware, including the first stage, upper stage, payload structures and fairing systems. From early development through build and test, this group ensures reliability, quality and readiness for flight.

They are looking for mechanically strong, detail oriented technicians who enjoy working with their hands, can interpret engineering drawings, and want to help build systems that will operate in space.

Role Overview

The Development Technician will fabricate flight hardware, build tooling and fixtures, support structural and pressure tests, and contribute to development activity on the next iteration of their launch vehicle. You will assemble complex mechanical systems, operate fabrication machinery, support high pressure and mechanical testing and provide feedback on development build instructions.

This is a safety focused, highly hands on role that involves working in confined spaces, on platforms, around moving machinery and directly with engineers across design, test and manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

Fabrication and Assembly

• Read, understand and provide feedback on work instructions and engineering drawings
• Assemble complex mechanical systems and structures
• Perform fastener torqueing, torque marking and insert installation
• Install fluid fittings including AN, ORB and Swagelok
• Support harness installation, cable routing and safety wire tasks
• Carry out LOX cleaning procedures when required

Machining and Fabrication Tools

Experience with fabrication tools such as:

• Sheet metal brake, press brake, shear, slip roller and tube roller
• Band saw, cold saw, drill press, hydraulic press
• Manual mill and lathe
• Hand drills, grinders and sanders
• Deburring tools
• Riveting tools including CherryMax and solid rivets
• Nutplates, Click Bond and riveted systems
• Waterjet operation and basic programming
• Tube bending and flaring

Welding and Composites

• TIG, MIG or laser welding experience
• Welding positioner setup
• Composite layup and vacuum bagging

Test Support

• Set up, run and tear down development system tests
• Support high pressure proof tests, leak tests, flow tests and load testing
• Operate cranes, forklifts and rigging equipment
• Maintain vacuum hardware, pumps and instrumentation

Documentation and Safety

• Log data, complete checklists and document procedures
• Follow strict safety protocols around high voltage, pressure systems and hazardous materials
• Work closely with engineering and manufacturing technicians to maintain safe operations

Troubleshooting

• Diagnose issues with build hardware, test setups, instrumentation and manufacturing tools
• Solve mechanical and fluidic problems in real time during builds or tests

Required Qualifications

• Two or more years of hands on experience in sheet metal fabrication, mechanical assembly or manual machining
• Strong troubleshooting skills across mechanical and fluid systems
• Ability to work non standard hours during critical testing periods
• High quality workmanship and strong attention to detail
• High school diploma or GED required
• Technical certificate or associate degree preferred

Desired Multipliers

• Experience in aerospace or space startup environments
• Experience with cryogenics or high pressure gas systems
• Familiarity with aerospace sheet metal and pressure vessel build and testing
• Ability to troubleshoot under pressure and adapt to changing test or build conditions

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly rate between 50.00 and 60.00 USD
• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• PTO and paid holidays
• Opportunities to work across advanced rocket development and testing