Development Technician
Alameda, CA | Full-Time Onsite
Industry: Aerospace, Sheet Metal Fabrication, Prototype Builds
A small rocket team in the Bay Area is hiring a hands-on Development Technician to help build the hardware for their next-generation orbital launch vehicle. This is a build-focused role with a heavy emphasis on sheet metal work, assembly, and prototype development.
You’ll be working directly with engineers to fabricate, assemble, and test mechanical systems for an orbital-class rocket. A lot of this is first-time hardware. They want someone who can help figure things out on the fly, not just follow a manual.
If you like working with your hands, making flat metal take shape, and getting involved early in the build process, this could be a great fit.
What You’ll Be Doing
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Fabricate and assemble rocket structures, test stands, and tooling
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Work with sheet metal – bend, form, drill, rivet, and fit complex components
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Translate drawings and sketches into real-world parts and give feedback to engineers
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Use fabrication tools like brakes, shears, rollers, drill presses, and mills
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Support fluid system builds including tubing, fittings, and integration
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Help set up and run development tests
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Keep documentation clean and accurate, from test logs to build notes
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Maintain a safe and tidy shop environment
✅ What You’ll Need
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2+ years of hands-on sheet metal, fabrication, or mechanical assembly experience
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Ability to read and understand engineering drawings and GD&T
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Comfortable with tools like press brakes, rivet guns, and drill presses
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Familiarity with CherryMax and solid rivets
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Good with fasteners, torque specs, and hardware installation
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Clear communication and a willingness to give input during the design process
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Detail-oriented and dependable when working on mission-critical parts
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Willing to put in extra hours when needed during test or build campaigns
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High school diploma or GED required – trade school or associate degree preferred
⭐ Bonus Points For
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Background in aerospace, race cars, custom fabrication, or high-end prototyping
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Welding experience (TIG or MIG)
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Experience with cryogenic or high-pressure fluid systems
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Familiarity with CAD models (NX, SolidWorks, etc.)
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Use of calipers, micrometers, and inspection tools
Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.
Adam Slade