Avionics Technician

Apex; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Healthcare coverage

PTO + holidays

401(k) matching

Parental leave

Job summary

Apex is seeking a highly skilled Specialized Technician to join the Avionics Test team in Playa Vista, CA. You will transform schematics into test-ready hardware, focusing on wiring harnesses, assembly, and integration for satellite buses.

Responsibilities include harness fabrication, precision assembly, and functional testing while adhering to NASA/IPC standards. A cleanroom environment and strict safety protocols are part of daily work.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in satellite or spacecraft assembly and integration.
• Certification in NASA-STD-8739 or IPC-J-STD-001 Space Addendum is required or preferred.
• Ability to read complex electrical schematics and 3D CAD models.

Responsibilities

• Wire Harness Fabrication: build and terminate complex satellite harnesses per standards.
• Precision Assembly: mechanical fastening, bonding, and alignment.
• System Integration: assembly, integration, and testing per specs and safety protocols.
• Functional Testing: use test equipment for continuity, insulation, and power-on tests.
• Documentation: maintain traceability with as-built records and drawings.
• Cleanroom Protocol: follow ISO Class cleanroom procedures and ESD controls.

Skills

Wire harnessing

Precision assembly

System integration

Functional testing

Electrical schematics

3D CAD

High-density connectors

Cleanroom safety

Education

NASA-STD-8739

IPC-J-STD-001 Space Addendum

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Multimeters

Spectrum analyzers

Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

About the Role

We are looking for a highly skilled Specialized Technician to join our Avionics Test team. In this role, you will be responsible for the wiring harness assembly, test rack builds, and the mechanical build of the FlatSats. You will work in a cleanroom environment, transforming high-level schematics into test-ready hardware.

Key Responsibilities

• Wire Harness Fabrication: Build, route, and terminate complex satellite wires and coax harnesses, including crimping, Shielding, and potting, adhering to strict NASA or IPC standards.

• Precision Assembly: Proficiency in precision assembly techniques, including mechanical fastening, bonding, and alignment.

• System Integration: Perform assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) activities for satellite and spacecraft development projects, following engineering specifications, procedures, and safety protocols.

• Functional Testing: Use oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, and spectrum analyzers to perform continuity checks, insulation resistance tests, and power-on self-tests.

• Documentation: Maintain meticulous "as-built" records, logs, and red-line drawings to ensure full traceability for every flight component.

• Cleanroom Protocol: Maintain a controlled ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) safe environment and follow strict ISO Class cleanroom procedures.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Experience: Minimum 5+ years of experience in satellite or spacecraft assembly and integration, specifically in aerospace structures, avionics integration, and harnessing.

• Certifications: Active or prior certification in NASA-STD-8739 or IPC-J-STD-001 (Space Addendum).

• Technical Proficiency: * Expert-level ability to read complex electrical schematics and 3D CAD models.

• Experience with high-density connectors (Micro-D, Nano-D, Circular Mil-Spec).

• Familiarity with quality standards and processes related to aerospace manufacturing.

• Knowledge of vacuum-compatible materials and outgassing prevention.

• Working knowledge of precision measurement tools and equipment used in satellite and spacecraft assembly and integration.

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with engineers and technicians.

• Strong commitment to safety, always adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.

• Soft Skills: Extreme attention to detail - spaceflight doesn't allow for a "do-over".

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work under a microscope for extended periods.

• Manual dexterity for handling tiny components and delicate wiring.

• Ability to work in a manufacturing lab environment.

• Ability to carry 50lbs

Why Join Apex?

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

What We Offer For Full-time Employees:

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel

• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day

• Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family

• Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self

• World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life

• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.