Propulsion Technician

Propulsion Technician

El Segundo, California, United States

Low Earth orbit is open for business. Varda is accelerating the development of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical reentry capsules. From life-saving pharmaceuticals to more powerful fiber optics, there is a world of products used on Earth today that can only be manufactured in space. Varda is accelerating innovation in the orbital economy by creating both the products and infrastructure needed so space can directly benefit life on Earth. Our mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind. Our team is uniquely suited to accomplishing this goal, with leadership and staff comprised of veterans from SpaceX, Blue Origin, major pharmaceutical companies and Silicon Valley. Varda was founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov with significant backing from world class investors including Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital. Varda is headquartered in El Segundo, California, where we have offices and a production facility where our vehicles, equipment, and materials are built, integrated, and tested. Varda also has offices in Washington, DC and Huntsville, AL. Join Varda, and work to create a bustling in-space ecosystem.

About This Role

As a Spacecraft Technician, you will be responsible for the building and testing of Propulsion Components and other Propulsion hardware. This includes many different valves, tubes, and propellant tanks. At Varda, you will be empowered to improve manufacturing processes, own production facilities, and learn new skills sets to support full vehicle builds. Technicians are the first and last line of defense in ensuring a successful build. Technicians taking responsibility for the quality of work performed is key.

Responsibilities

• Stage and assemble flight propulsion hardware according to technical work instructions. This includes many different valves, tubes, and propellant tanks.
• Precision clean flight hardware prior to valve/component/tube/tank assembly
• Execute electrical and pneumatic leak testing of propulsion components according to test plans
• Work directly with engineers to improve build processes
• Hands-on operation on sensitive hardware
• Use precision calibrated tools
• Operate basic metal machining tools
• Complete production floor maintenance and upkeep

Basic Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalency certificate
• 1+ years of experience working hands-on as a technician in aerospace or aviation sectors
• Teamwork, communication, and problem solving in a collaborative environment
• Basic computer skills

Preferred Skills And Experience

• 5+ years of experience working hands-on as a technician in aerospace or aviation sectors
• Ability to read and execute work to engineering drawings and schematics
• Assembling and testing of spacecraft, rocket, or aircraft propulsion systems
• Assembling and testing electronic components
• Testing integrated complex systems such as satellites, planes, or rockets
• Experience with forklifts, cranes, and lift rigging
• Working in cleanrooms with ESD sensitive components
• Knowledge of pressure, temperature, and load measurement devices
• Proficient with computers and MS Office
• FAA Airframe and PowerPlant license

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.