Production Vacuum Test Technician

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

The Team

The Astra Test Team is responsible for verifying that flight hardware will successfully operate in space. We execute testing for increasingly high-throughput production of our thruster modules and related subsystems, plus continual development testing for new programs and capabilities. To make this all happen, we also develop and operate state-of-the-art facilities for testing plasma thrusters in conditions that simulate the space and launch environment - high vacuum, thermal, vibration, and shock. 

The Opportunity 

As a Test Technician at Astra, you will play a hands-on role in testing our Astra Spacecraft Engine (ASE) Hall-effect thruster modules in vacuum environments that simulate space conditions. You’ll be responsible for preparing, operating, and maintaining vacuum chambers, assembling test setups, and supporting critical R&D and production test campaigns.

This is a highly technical, safety-focused role that requires attention to detail, mechanical and electrical aptitude, and a strong desire to work on systems that will operate in space.

How You'll Fulfill Your Mission

• Operate Vacuum Chambers: Safely operate and monitor thermal vacuum systems, ensuring test environments meet mission requirements for pressure, cleanliness, and thermal control
• Test Support: Assist in setup, execution, and teardown of propulsion system tests—including thrusters, feed systems, and support electronics
• Troubleshoot Issues: Diagnose and resolve problems with test hardware, instrumentation, and vacuum systems in real time during test operations
• Assembly & Fabrication: Assemble mechanical and electrical test setups from engineering drawings and schematics
• Maintain Systems: Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of vacuum hardware, pumps, and instrumentation
• Safety First: Follow safety protocols around high voltage, pressure systems, and hazardous materials
• Data Logging & Documentation: Support test execution by logging data, completing checklists, and ensuring proper documentation of procedures and outcomes
• Cross-Team Collaboration: Work closely with test engineers, software developers, and manufacturing technicians to ensure smooth and safe test operations

Why We Value You

• 2+ years of hands-on experience working in test labs or with vacuum systems, mechanical assemblies, or high-voltage systems
• Proven troubleshooting skills in electrical, mechanical, or vacuum systems
• Experience operating or supporting vacuum chamber testing, especially in a space/aerospace environment
• Comfortable using multimeters, pressure gauges, and other diagnostic tools
• Familiarity with basic electrical schematics and mechanical drawings
• Willingness to work non-standard hours (evenings/weekends) as needed to support mission-critical testing
• You take pride in high-quality, detail-oriented work
• High school diploma or GED required; technical certification or associate degree in a related field preferred

Desired Multipliers 

• Experience working with thruster or propulsion system testing
• Familiarity with cleanroom procedures, vacuum safety, or contamination control
• Basic skills in soldering, wiring, or fabrication
• Understanding of pressure systems, cryogenics, or high-voltage safety
• The ability to think critically, troubleshoot under pressure, and adapt quickly to evolving test conditions

The pay range for this role is: $40 - $50 per hour

The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.

You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Astra, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

ITAR Requirements: This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology  trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.

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