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!

Machinist

As a machinist at Astranis, you will be responsible for machining and fabricating flight components for Astranis spacecraft, as well as supporting engineering with equipment and prototypes for future projects. The role will entail being able to operate CNC machines and various manual equipment, use quality inspection tools to verify hardware, and communicate with engineering teams to provide manufacturing feedback.

Role

Read job orders and blueprints for aerospace prototype and production parts, and produce them on a variety of equipment in our machine shop.
Set up 3- and 5-axis CNC machines, including tooling creation, tool selection, and programming.
Run multiple machines of different types, including scheduling jobs to maximize productivity.
Use Coordinate Measurement Machine (CMM) and hand tools to inspect parts made both internally and by external suppliers.
Program and operate the Faro arm measurement equipment for both component inspection and satellite integration-level measurements.
Document builds via Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to control part configuration, material certification, and traceability.
Procure material for jobs as needed based on requests for parts.
Write non-conformance tickets for defects created or found during the manufacturing process.
Assist in training for new employees and other internal users of the machine shop.

Requirements

High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
3+ years experience machining parts for aerospace, medical, or other high-reliability industries
Knowledge of Solidworks, Fusion CAD/CAM, or other CAM software
Knowledge of Haas, Matsuura and general Fanuc controllers
Understanding of basic rigging and safety for moving objects
Proficiency with inspection tools and experience dimensionally verifying hardware to engineering specifications
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry
Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, decimals, and shop math to practical situations
Accessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned
Must be onsite 5 days a week

Bonus

CMM programming experience (Mitutoyo preferred)
Welding experience desired but not required ( TIG, UHV TIG, Ultrasonic, EBW, other bonding processes )
Honeycomb fabrication and machining desired but not required
General material knowledge required, exotic materials desired (7050,LiAL,TI, 3d Prints and other ASTM materials)
Composite fabrication knowledge desired but not required
Component cleaning, bagging and documentation knowledge desired but not required

Physical Conditions

Remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods
Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another
Adjusting, moving, transporting, installing, positioning, or removing objects up to 25 pounds in all directions
Communicating with others to exchange information
Operating motor vehicles, heavy equipment or machinery
Use hand tools
Assisting in assembly test fixtures and test setups in collaboration with Astranis teams.

Environmental Conditions

Noisy environments
Odors or fumes from chemicals
High-concentration, demanding and fast-paced

Safety and PPE

Reading and interpreting hazardous warning signs
Manipulating, cleaning and disposal of hazardous materials
Reporting issues with equipment or unsafe conditions as well as basic lock out procedures.
Color identification: detecting, distinguishing, recognizing and identifying colors
Wearing proper PPE, to include face mask, face shields, gloves, safety toe shoes

Certification

Capable of obtaining forklift certification

Additional Requirements

Occasionally requires overtime
Occasionally requires working weekends
Occasionally requires schedule flexibility
Occasionally requires non-standard work-week hours
Occasionally requires extended hours to support launch and flight critical project timelines

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

$30—$60 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

Safety and PPE

6 month growth

1 year growth

2 year growth

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

What critics are saying

What makes Astranis unique

Benefits