Machining Quality Inspector @ Astranis

Astranis is on a mission to bridge the digital divide by connecting the four billion people worldwide who currently lack internet access. We’re doing this by building the next generation of smaller, more cost-effective spacecraft to bring the world online.

As a team, we’ve launched two satellites into orbit, signed ten commercial deals worth over $1 billion in revenue, raised over $500 million from top global investors, and recruited a team of over 300 world-class engineers. We all work out of our (legendary) San Francisco office, which was once used to build ships during the World Wars.

Our satellites, which operate from geostationary orbit (GEO), weigh only 400 kg and utilize a proprietary software-defined radio payload. Each satellite can connect over two million people, and we’re very excited for the impact we’ll soon have in the Philippines, Peru, Mexico, and more!

Backed by substantial funding and a passionate, collaborative team, we offer a rewarding work environment where you’ll learn and make a significant impact, no matter where you are in your career.

Apply and join us on our journey towards global connectivity!

Quality Inspector, Machining

As our first Quality Inspector, you will be tasked with the challenge of analyzing and inspecting precision machined parts here at Astranis. Astranis is producing some of the most capable and compact geostationary satellites ever flown, which demand complex geometry and tight tolerances to achieve the mission performance and life targets. If you are ready to take precision to the next level, this job is for you!

This role will be the first dedicated quality person in the machining and development operations group, and will work closely with the head of machining to ensure the highest quality controls for parts made both internally and externally, as well as performing key measurements on the satellite and owning quality processes across the business. The ideal candidate has extensive precision/dimensional inspection experience using an array of tools both manual and automated, can set up new processes from scratch, and can effectively check all required measurements.

Role

Inspect all mechanical parts built in the Astranis machine shop and at various suppliers, for both flight and development use, and ensure zero quality escapes to the production line.
Program and operate the CMM and Faro measurement equipment for both component inspection and satellite integration-level measurements.
Follow work orders to document part manufacturing and inspection processes, including part marking and traceability.
Conduct precision tooling calibrations on a scheduled basis.
Create issue tickets and templates for nonconforming hardware and work with engineering to ensure speedy resolution, including performing containment of other discrepant hardware as needed.
Work with machinists to improve the machining process for more accurate part manufacturing.
Work with the inventory team to follow the process for incoming quality control of machined components.
Partner with engineering to develop new processes such as fabrication or cleaning, to ensure the right quality controls are built-in from the start.
Create a system for tracking metrology and manage the on-time calibration of tools across the entire factory.
Give feedback via reports and graphics on part tolerance and measured values.
Set up and maintain a request/priority system for inspections, tool calibration, etc. to keep the business informed of status, progress, and blockers.
Conduct regular quality reviews to communicate performance, challenges, and opportunities to improve for both internal machine shop and suppliers.

Requirements

3+ years in quality inspector role focused on precision/dimensional inspection of machined parts.
3+ years experience reading and manipulating CAD models and engineering drawings including Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) language.
2+ years programming and operating Coordinate Measurement Machine (CMM).
Proficient with all measurement tools required to inspect machined hardware, such as calipers, micrometers, pins, and other gauges.
Fast-paced, self-directed, and able to execute with minimal direction.

Bonus

Mitutoyo MCOSMOS programming.
Faro arm measurement.
Knowledge of manufacturing execution system (MES) and warehouse management system (WMS) software packages.
Trained in 5S area setup and maintenance.
Precision cleaning and part marking.
Tool calibration experience.

What we offer:

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

Base pay is a single 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, and free on-site catered meals.

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

Base Hourly Pay

$35—$48 USD

U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or Refugee/Asylee Status Required

(To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States, or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3))

Our mission and our products are meant to connect the world and everyone in it, regardless of gender, race, creed, or any other distinction. We believe in a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we encourage all people to join our team and bring their unique perspective to help make us stronger.

Compensation Overview

Quality Inspector, Machining

Role

Requirements

Bonus

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1 year growth

2 year growth

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