Lead Spacecraft Technician

Lead Spacecraft Technician

Apex Space is seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Spacecraft Technician to oversee and guide the assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) of our spacecraft. As a Lead, you will not only perform hands-on build activities but also mentor a team of technicians, coordinate with engineering, and ensure quality, efficiency, and safety throughout the production process. Your leadership will be critical in ensuring our spacecraft are built to the highest standards and delivered on time to meet mission requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Lead day-to-day activities of spacecraft assembly, integration, and testing, ensuring adherence to engineering specifications, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Mentor, train, and provide technical guidance to technicians, fostering skill growth and cross-training.
• Coordinate task assignments, track progress, and communicate status updates to supervisors and engineering teams.
• Perform and oversee structural assembly tasks, including component installation, sub-assemblies, mechanical fastening and installation, bonding, and precision alignment.
• Guide avionics system integration, ensuring correct installation of electronic components, and wiring harnesses.
• Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis, working with engineers to resolve technical issues quickly and effectively.
• Lead system-level functional testing (Polarity Functional, RF Testing, Battery, Communication, Payload and General Functions.)
• Participate in and oversee environmental testing activities (thermal vacuum, vibration, shock) for spacecraft validation.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and industry's best practices, driving a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Maintain accurate documentation of assembly activities, test results, and discrepancies.
• Collaborate with leadership to improve processes, tooling, and documentation to increase efficiency and reduce errors.
• Serve as a role model for safety, quality, and professionalism on the production floor.

Requirements:

• U.S. Person status required (export-controlled data access).
• 5+ years of experience in spacecraft or satellite assembly, integration, and testing (structures, avionics, harnessing).
• Experience training and mentoring new technicians to develop their skills and holding others accountable to protocols and standards.
• Deep proficiency in aerospace assembly techniques: mechanical fastening, bonding, alignment, avionics integration, and harness installation.
• Strong background in system-level functional testing and troubleshooting electrical/mechanical issues.
• Familiarity with environmental testing methods (thermal vacuum, vibration, shock).
• Working knowledge of precision measurement tools and interpretation of engineering drawings.
• Experience with quality systems and standards in aerospace manufacturing.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to coordinate across technicians, engineers, and leadership.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a track record of driving improvements in processes or team performance.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and mentorship.

What We Offer:

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
• Comprehensive PTO package: To reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
• Competitive 401(k) plan: With generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
• 8 weeks paid parental leave: Plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks: To keep you fueled throughout the day
• Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social gatherings for you and your family
• Your dream desk setup: And all the tools you need to be your most productive self
• World-class Playa Vista office: With EV chargers, with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of any other legally protected status.