Propulsion Technician

Astro Mechanica • San Francisco, CA

9h • Onsite

About The Position

Astro Mechanica is seeking a Propulsion Technician to join our growing manufacturing and prototyping team. The ideal candidate is a highly skilled hands-on builder who takes pride in crafting precise, high-performance components that push the boundaries of aerospace engineering. You have a deep understanding of materials, fabrication techniques, and mechanical systems—and you thrive in an environment where speed, precision, and innovation intersect.
Your work at Astro Mechanica will have a direct impact on the development of next-generation high-speed aircraft, contributing to both prototype and production systems that enable faster, more connected global travel. In this role, your mission will be to turn cutting-edge designs into flight-ready hardware through expert craftsmanship, problem-solving, and close collaboration with our engineering and manufacturing teams.

Requirements

• Demonstrated welding ability through prior projects, welding multiple alloys; certification(s) a strong plus.
• 5+ years of hands-on fabrication experience in aerospace, automotive, motorsports, or other fast-paced manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with pressurized systems, fluid systems hardware and instrumentation
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, P&ID, electrical schematics
• Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of structural principles, materials, and joining methods.
• Ability to work autonomously and take ownership of high-impact hardware builds under fast development timelines.
• Experience with inspection equipment and precision calibrated tools
• Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks)
• Attentive to detail and committed to maintaining the highest levels of quality in all work.
• A team-oriented mindset with a passion for building something extraordinary.
• Capable of lifting 35 pounds, stand for long periods, maneuver in restricted spaces, work low to ground and on raised platforms

Responsibilities

• Collaborate frequently with design and engineering teams to optimize manufacturability, ensure structural integrity, and refine fabrication processes.
• Contribute to prototype builds and rapid iteration cycles, supporting the full lifecycle from concept to test article.
• Maintain test facility operations and maintenance, troubleshoot problems, site cleanliness
• Monitor and maintain sufficient inventory of equipment, supplies, and instrumentation
• Operate manual machine shop equipment (drills, cutting tools, mills, lathes)
• Fabricate with sheet metal (forming, shearing, rolling, stamping)
• Material joining (GTAW welding, brazing, soldering, mechanical fastening)
• Fluid systems plumbing (tube routing, swaging, flaring)
• Harness assembly (crimping/soldering terminals, cable lacing, troubleshooting)
• Maneuver heavy objects with forklift, rigging equipment
• Conducts work efficiently while in a safe and professional manner

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
• Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
• Flexible work environment

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed