Engineering Technician I

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. (ESAero); San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 30,307 - 45,460; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness plans

120 hours of PTO

Employer-paid life insurance

401(k) with company match

Casual dress code and snacks

Job summary

A leading aerospace engineering firm is looking for an Engineering Technician I to support engineering teams in developing and testing prototype parts. This hands-on role requires strong attention to detail, adaptability, and the ability to work independently or within a team. Responsibilities include assisting with prototype assembly, following technical drawings, and ensuring quality documentation. Candidates should have substantial experience in relevant fields, preferably with UAV systems and advanced tools. Benefits include health plans, paid time off, and a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Must have hands-on experience in prototype parts and assemblies development.
• Strong attention to detail and adaptability to fast-paced environments.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings.

Responsibilities

• Assist engineering in the development and fabrication of prototypes.
• Follow written work instructions for assembly and documentation.
• Utilize basic hand tools to create assemblies.

Skills

Experience operating within an ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality environment

Proficiency with handling using lithium‑ion batteries

Experience fabricating composite parts and assemblies

Experience assembling simple UAV systems

Understanding of GD&T tolerancing basics

Experience designing tooling and fixtures

Ability to perform simple electronic diagnostics

Certifications as a trainer for workmanship standards

Ability to use advanced measurement and inspection tools

Experience assembling complex UAV systems

Firm understanding of GD&T tolerancing and drawing standards

CAD design experience

Proficient with advanced tools and equipment

10+ years of experience in a related field

Job description

Job Summary

The Engineering Technician I supports engineering teams in the development, assembly, and testing of prototype parts and assemblies. This hands‑on role involves following detailed work instructions, interpreting technical drawings, and using basic hand and measurement tools to build and document assemblies accurately. The Engineering Technician I collaborates closely with engineers to assist with product modifications, testing, and process improvements while helping create and maintain build documentation. This role requires strong attention to detail, adaptability in a fast‑paced environment, a commitment to safety and quality, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team to meet project timelines.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Assist engineering in the development and fabrication of prototypes parts and assemblies
• Follow written work instructions to assemble and document the build of each assembly
• Interpret and understand technical drawings and documents
• Utilize basic hand tools to create assemblies
• Assist the engineers as they create, modify & test products and processes
• Help create build documentation and work instructions of assemblies
• Support other functions of the company depending on skills, workload, prioritization
• Communicate and elevate any process or quality issues
• Adhere to safety requirements and promote a safety‑first culture

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Experience operating within an ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality environment
• Proficiency with handling using lithium‑ion batteries
• Experience fabricating composite parts and assemblies
• Experience assembling simple UAV systems
• Understanding of GD&T tolerancing basics
• Experience designing tooling and fixtures to support assembly and fabrication
• Ability to perform simple electronic diagnostics using a multimeter and other equipment
• Certifications as a trainer for workmanship standards such as IPC, J‑STD, etc.
• Ability to use advanced measurement and inspection tools
• Experience assembling complex UAV systems
• Firm understanding of GD&T tolerancing and technical drawing standards
• CAD design experience
• Proficient with advanced tools and equipment
• 10+ years of experience in a related field

Desired Qualifications and Skills

• Quick learner, hard‑working with skilled hands
• Must be able to verbally communicate, read, and comprehend written and verbal instructions
• Ability to use basic hand tools for assembly and fabrication
• Ability to flex work schedule and support overtime to accommodate project needs
• Technical hands‑on capability with attention to detail.
• Excellent work ethic and attendance
• Self‑motivated and must be able to work without supervision
• Ability to use basic hand measurement tools
• Ability to collaborate and remain calm and professional in a fast‑paced environment
• 1-2 years of experience in a related field

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks

• Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans – including a 100% employer‑paid option covering both employees and their families.
• Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off.
• Life Insurance: $25,000 employer‑paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.
• Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax‑advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.
• Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
• Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.
• Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life – a perfect place to live, work, and play!

Company Overview

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high‑quality, innovative, and cost‑effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting‑edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on‑time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services.

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel the aerospace industry forward.

This position is fully on‑site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA

Benefits

ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.

E-Verify participation required for employment.

Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.

Must be able to pass background check and drug test.

Hiring Range: $22.00-$33.00 Hourly Non-Exempt