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Spacecraft Propulsion Technician Verified today

K2 Space · Los Angeles, CA · Propulsion · first seen 2026-09-23
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The Role

As a Spacecraft Propulsion Technician, you will support development and production scaling of the highest-powered electric propulsion system ever put into orbit. You will work hands-on with Hall effect thruster assembly, COPV proof testing, and system-level production acceptance testing across mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems.

Responsibilities

  • Perform hands-on assembly of Hall thrusters and sub-assemblies to engineering drawings, BOMs, and work instructions
  • Support system integration and high-pressure operations following procedures and safety protocols: leak checks, proof testing, pressure system functional verification on feed systems and COPVs
  • Fabricate, bend, fit, and install precision tubing and fluid lines to required standards
  • Fabricate wire harnesses from assembly drawings and electrical schematics
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, test, quality, and design engineering to resolve hardware issues in real time
  • Follow detailed work instructions and manufacturing procedures using the MES system (scanning, material consumption, and build traceability)
  • Support setup of vacuum chamber for acceptance and performance testing
  • Support receiving, inspection, and handling of COPVs
  • Practice 5S principles to organize and sustain an efficient workspace
  • Provide consistent process improvement feedback to engineering and production leadership
  • Occasionally support vehicle integration operations and related departments

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of hands-on aerospace assembly and test experience in propulsion, pressure systems, fluid systems, or high-reliability hardware
  • Experience with pressure testing, leak checking, proof/burst testing, or COPV handling
  • Familiarity with MES/MRP software
  • Familiarity with calibrated tools including multimeters, torque wrenches, safety cable guns, and crimpers
  • Demonstrated high level of ownership and problem-solving abilities
  • Experience working with FOD, ESD sensitive hardware and clean room requirements

Nice to Have

  • Direct experience with electric propulsion systems and familiarity with pressure testing, vacuum chambers, turbo pumps, roughing pumps, and gauges
  • Ability to read mechanical and engineering drawings and interpret tolerances including GD&T
  • Experience working with engineering teams in development and production environments
  • Experience operating forklifts, cranes, and heavy equipment
  • Strong communication skills with ability to communicate hardware and systems problems and provide feedback on tooling processes and part design
  • Ability to obtain or currently hold top secret/SCI security clearance

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to perform repetitive tasks such as bending, twisting, grasping, standing, lifting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, carrying, and operating tools or machine controls
  • Must be able to lift and carry parts or equipment up to 50 lbs unassisted
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time
  • Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed

Compensation and Benefits

  • Hourly pay range: $35 to $45 per hour plus equity
  • Compensation based on knowledge, skills, education, and experience level
  • Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and other perks

Export Compliance

This role provides access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations including ITAR. The person hired must either be a U.S. person as defined by 22 C.F.R. Section 120.15 (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual such as refugee or asylee) or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license.