Mechanisms Technician (aerospace)

Mechanisms Technician (Aerospace)

El Segundo, California, United States

About This Role

The Mechanisms Technician is responsible for the assembly, integration, testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance of mechanical systems and fluid handling devices mechanisms used in aerospace vehicles and equipment. This role supports engineering and production teams to ensure high reliability and performance of precision components in demanding environments, including fluid-based systems used in pharmaceutical applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Assemble, install, and integrate aerospace mechanical systems and mechanisms (e.g., actuators, hinges, deployment systems, gear assemblies).
• Assemble and support fluid handling devices and systems (e.g., valves, tubing assemblies, manifolds) used in pharmaceutical or controlled environments.
• Perform functional testing, calibration, and validation of mechanical components, subsystems and fluid devices.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose mechanical issues using schematics, technical drawings, and test data.
• Support environmental and performance testing (vibration, thermal, vacuum, etc.).
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and work instructions.
• Maintain detailed records of builds, tests, and inspections and fluid system validations in compliance with aerospace standards.
• Collaboration with engineers to improve designs, manufacturability, reliability, and fluid system performance.
• Perform preventative maintenance and repairs on test equipment, mechanical systems, and fluid handling equipment.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and quality standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO).
• Assist with root cause analysis and corrective actions for mechanical and fluid system failures or anomalies.

Required Qualifications

• Associate's degree or technical certification in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Aerospace Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3-5+ years of hands-on experience with precision mechanical assembly, preferably in aerospace, satellite, or defense manufacturing.
• Experience with fluid handling systems, including tubing, fittings, pumps, or valves (pharma or similar industries preferred).
• Proficiency with precision tools, measurement instruments, and assembly techniques.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and schematics.
• Familiarity with mechanical systems such as gears, bearings, linkages, actuators adhesive bonding and component alignment.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to work in a high-precision environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace, space systems, or pharmaceutical/biotech manufacturing.
• Knowledge of cleanroom procedures and contamination control.
• Experience with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, vacuum).
• Understanding of materials, tolerances, and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing).
• Experience working with electromechanical systems.

Key Skills

• Mechanical assembly and integration
• Precision measurement and inspection
• Troubleshooting and diagnostics
• Technical documentation
• Team collaboration
• Quality assurance and compliance

Work Environment

• May work in laboratories, manufacturing floors, or cleanroom environments.
• Requires use of PPE and adherence to strict safety and quality standards.

May involve standing for long periods and handling delicate or heavy components.

Pay Range

Technician I: $27 to $30 per hour

Technician II: $32 to $36 per hour

Sr. Technician: $39 to $43 per hour

• Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance
• You will be eligible for incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards

Benefits

• Exciting team of professionals at the top of their field working by your side
• Equity in a fully funded space startup with potential for significant growth (interns excluded)
• 401(k) matching (interns excluded)
• Unlimited PTO (interns excluded)
• Health insurance, including Vision and Dental
• Lunch and snacks provided on site every day. Dinners provided twice a week.
• Maternity / Paternity leave (interns excluded)

Varda Space Industries 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 race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, martial status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

E-Verify Statement

Varda Space Industries, Inc. participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. The E-Verify program is an Internet-based employment eligibility verification system operated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Learn more about the E-Verify program.