Aerospace Test Technician - Prototyping & Instrumentation

Speedrun Talent Network; Seattle, Northern (WA, KY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield AI in Seattle is seeking a skilled Test Technician to support fabrication, instrumentation, and testing of X-Bat hardware. The role suits a hands-on builder with experience in test stands, precision instrumentation, and prototyping.

You will contribute from early prototype development to validation of final assemblies, working in a dynamic lab environment with aerospace-grade materials and data acquisition systems.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of fabrication or aerospace-grade instrumentation experience.
• Strong background in strain gauge installation and sensor wiring.
• Hands-on machine shop operations including manual/CNC tools.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, schematics and work instructions.
• Comfortable in shop/lab with noise, dust, chemicals.
• Ability to lift/move parts up to 50 lbs for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Construct and assemble large-scale structures and test articles per drawings and CAD models.
• Support design, prototyping, and fabrication of new products and flight hardware.
• Maintain accurate records of test equipment configurations across projects.
• Work with aerospace-grade materials and perform structural repairs using standard techniques.
• Fabricate fixtures, machine brackets, and modify prototype hardware as needed.
• Install strain gauges, thermocouples, and sensors per instrumentation schematics.
• Route cabling, integrate data acquisition systems, and verify sensor calibration.
• Conduct mechanical testing by applying static and dynamic loads per procedures.
• Document test outcomes and report anomalies promptly.
• Ensure a clean, organized, safe workspace across shop, lab, and composite areas.
• Contribute to improvements in instrumentation standards, testing procedures, and workflows.
• Source and manage inventory for parts and equipment for repairs or replacements.

Skills

Fabrication

Strain gauge installation

Machine shop operations

Reading drawings

Physical work

Tools

CNC tools

Manual machinery

Job description

Shield AI in Seattle is seeking a skilled Test Technician to support fabrication, instrumentation, and testing of X-Bat hardware. The role suits a hands-on builder with experience in test stands, precision instrumentation, and prototyping.

You will contribute from early prototype development to validation of final assemblies, working in a dynamic lab environment with aerospace-grade materials and data acquisition systems.