Current jobs related to Precision Machinist - California - Astranis Space Technologies

Astranis Space Technologies is dedicated to closing the digital gap by providing internet access to the four billion individuals globally who currently lack connectivity. We are achieving this by developing innovative, smaller, and more affordable spacecraft designed to connect the world.

Our team has successfully launched two satellites into orbit, secured ten commercial agreements valued at over $1 billion, raised more than $500 million from leading global investors, and built a talented workforce of over 300 exceptional engineers. Our operations are based in a historic San Francisco office, formerly a shipbuilding site during the World Wars.

Our satellites, which function from geostationary orbit (GEO), weigh just 400 kg and employ a unique software-defined radio payload. Each satellite has the capability to connect over two million individuals, and we are eager to see the positive effects we will soon have in regions such as the Philippines, Peru, and Mexico.

With strong financial backing and a dedicated, collaborative workforce, we provide a fulfilling work environment where you can learn and make a meaningful contribution, regardless of your career stage.

Position: Machinist

As a machinist at Astranis, your primary responsibility will be to machine and fabricate flight components for our spacecraft. You will also assist engineering teams with equipment and prototypes for upcoming projects. This role requires proficiency in operating CNC machines and various manual tools, as well as using quality inspection instruments to verify hardware and effectively communicate with engineering teams to provide manufacturing insights.

Key Responsibilities:

• Interpret job orders and blueprints for aerospace prototype and production components, and manufacture them using a variety of equipment in our machine shop.
• Set up and operate 3- and 5-axis CNC machines, including tooling creation, tool selection, and programming.
• Manage multiple machines of various types, optimizing job scheduling to enhance productivity.
• Utilize Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMM) and hand tools to inspect parts produced both internally and by external suppliers.
• Program and operate Faro arm measurement equipment for component inspection and satellite integration-level measurements.
• Document builds through a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to maintain part configuration, material certification, and traceability.
• Procure materials for jobs as necessary based on part requests.
• Issue non-conformance tickets for defects identified during the manufacturing process.
• Assist in training new employees and other internal users of the machine shop.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED with five years of relevant experience and/or training; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience machining parts for aerospace, medical, or other high-reliability sectors.
• Familiarity with Solidworks and HSMworks operation, along with other CAM systems.
• Knowledge of Haas, Matsuura, and general Fanuc controllers.
• Understanding of basic rigging and safety procedures for moving objects.
• Proficiency with inspection tools and experience in dimensionally verifying hardware against engineering specifications.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety regulations, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Capability to work with mathematical concepts, including fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry.
• Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, decimals, and shop math to practical situations.
• Assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of assigned work.
• Onsite presence required five days a week.

Preferred Skills:

• CMM programming experience (Mitutoyo preferred).
• Welding experience is a plus (TIG, UHV TIG, Ultrasonic, EBW, and other bonding processes).
• Experience with honeycomb fabrication and machining is desirable but not mandatory.
• General material knowledge is required; familiarity with exotic materials (7050, LiAL, TI, 3D prints, and other ASTM materials) is a plus.
• Knowledge of composite fabrication is a plus but not required.
• Experience with component cleaning, bagging, and documentation is a plus but not required.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to remain in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for extended periods.
• Mobility to accomplish tasks or move between work sites.
• Capability to adjust, move, transport, install, position, or remove objects weighing up to 25 pounds in all directions.
• Effective communication with others to exchange information.
• Operation of motor vehicles, heavy equipment, or machinery.
• Use of hand tools.
• Assisting in the assembly of test fixtures and setups in collaboration with Astranis teams.

Environmental Conditions:

• Exposure to noisy environments.
• Potential odors or fumes from chemicals.
• Work in high-concentration, demanding, and fast-paced settings.

Safety and PPE:

• Ability to read and interpret hazardous warning signs.
• Handling, cleaning, and disposal of hazardous materials.
• Reporting equipment issues or unsafe conditions, along with basic lockout procedures.
• Color identification skills: detecting, distinguishing, recognizing, and identifying colors.
• Wearing appropriate PPE, including face masks, face shields, gloves, and safety toe shoes.

Certification:

• Ability to obtain forklift certification.

Additional Requirements:

• Occasional overtime may be required.
• Flexibility to work weekends may be necessary.
• Schedule flexibility may be required.
• Non-standard work hours may be necessary at times.
• Extended hours may be required to support critical project timelines.

Compensation:

All positions offer a comprehensive compensation package that includes equity and robust benefits.

Base pay is one component of Astranis's total rewards package, which may also include equity in the form of incentive stock options, high-quality company-subsidized healthcare, disability and life insurance benefits, flexible PTO, 401(K) retirement plans, and complimentary on-site catered meals.

Astranis's pay ranges are informed by professional-grade salary surveys and compensation data sources. The actual base salary offered to a successful candidate will be influenced by various factors, including experience, credentials and certifications, educational background, skill level requirements, and the scope of the position.

Base Hourly Pay: $30 - $50 USD

U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or Refugee/Asylee Status Required: To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents of the United States, or other protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Astranis is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, encouraging individuals from all backgrounds to contribute their unique perspectives to strengthen our mission.