Flight Assembly Technician

Malin Space Science Systems, Inc; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 39,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

Malin Space Science Systems is seeking a Flight Assembly Technician in San Diego, CA to perform high-level assembly of prototype and spaceflight electronics under supervision. The role involves precise hand soldering, cable harness assembly, and adherence to NASA and IPC workmanship standards in a controlled environment.

The position requires 3–5 years of experience, J-STD-001 certification, and the ability to read schematics and mechanical drawings.

Qualifications

• High-School Graduation or GED required; some college or trade certification desired.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in related assembly roles.
• Excellent hand soldering, cable harness, and mechanical assembly skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written instructions precisely.
• Ability to read schematics and mechanical drawings.
• J-STD-001 certification required; Space Addendum preferred/required for the role.
• NASA-STD 8739.1 certification to be obtained if not already held.
• Proficient computer skills including MS Excel and Word.
• Able to work with tight deadlines and high accuracy in a cleanroom environment.

Responsibilities

• Assemble electronic, mechanical, optical, and cable harness components per work instructions and standards.
• Maintain detailed assembly records and documentation.
• Assist hardware engineering in prototype assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and integration.
• Maintain required NASA trainings and recertifications and perform daily ESD checks.
• Cross-train across assembly disciplines to support all tasks.
• Prepare work areas and equipment, perform routine maintenance as needed.
• Complete initial and ongoing ESD training before entering sensitive areas.

Skills

Hand soldering

Cable harness assembly

Mechanical assembly

Documentation

Organization

Communication

Reading schematics/drawings

ESD procedures

Education

High school diploma or GED

Trade school / ROP certification

Tools

MS Excel

MS Word

Job description

Flight Assembly Technician (San Diego, CA)

Malin Space Science Systems (MSSS) is a private technology company that designs, develops and operates space camera systems for government and commercial aerospace customers and provides services in spacecraft instrument operations and space science research. As a member of our multidisciplinary space imaging systems design team, the Flight Assembly Technician is responsible for high-level assembly of prototype and spaceflight electronics under the direction of Production Supervisor or Production Management.

Position Details

• Department: Camera Systems Group
• This is a non-management position
• This is a full time position
• Pay Range: $28-31/hr

Essential Functions

• Assembles electronic, mechanical, optical, and cable harness assemblies by following detailed work instructions and applicable NASA and IPC workmanship standards.
• Maintains detailed assembly records.
• Assists hardware engineering in assembly of prototype electronics and cable harnesses, testing, troubleshooting, and mechanical integration.
• Maintains all required NASA trainings and recertifications.
• Performs ESD check-in on a daily basis.
• Cross-trains in assembly disciplines to support all aspects of work completion.
• Participates in team meetings and provides updates on work status.
• Maintains work area, tools and equipment. Performs required maintenance as needed.
• Prior to entering assembly, test, storage or development areas within the Camera Systems Group unescorted, receive initial and ongoing annual training in the fundamentals of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD).

Non-Essential Functions

• Travels to customers and/or vendors as required.
• Performs other duties as required or requested which may become essential to this position.

Minimum Qualifications

• High-School Graduate / GED required. Some college or Trade School / ROP certification desired.
• Minimum of 3 to 5 years’ experience.
• Excellent hand soldering, cable harness assembly, mechanical assembly, documentation, organization, and communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to work closely with each member of a production team.
• Must be able to read schematics and mechanical drawings and precisely follow detailed written instructions.
• J-STD-001 certification is required. Space Addendum certification is preferred and is a requirement to perform the position.
• Polymerics mix and application experienced preferred; will be required to obtain NASA-STD 8739.1 certification.
• Must be computer literate with knowledge of MS Excel and Word.
• Results-oriented, self-motivated and dependable.
• Hands-on machinist experience for manufacturing test fixtures is preferred.
• Ability to work outside of regular business hours.
• Occasional travel to customers and/or vendors may be required.

Comp:

$28-31/hr

Physical Requirements

Must be able to remain in a stationary position operating lab equipment for periods of time. Must be able to perform repetitive soldering tasks under a microscope to properly position hardware. Ability to inspect parts and assemblies under a microscope to determine product placement. Ability to work and move around in a cleanroom environment, wearing required outer garments including smock/coveralls, shoe covers, mask, goggles, hood, gloves and ESD wrist strap. Must be able to communicate clearly with a variety of people on a daily basis. Must be able to traverse spaces in and around the office, labs, and machine shop as applicable. Ability to lift and carry up to 10 lbs. as needed. Possess mental acuity at a level which will facilitate execution of complex technical instructions. Ability to practice safe driving habits while following all state safety regulations and standards. Ability to handle high stress levels in connection with multiple conflicting priorities and deadlines. High tolerance for ambiguity and shifting expectations. Ability to travel to customers and/or vendors locations.

Disclaimer

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. The Employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

MSSS is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of any protected status, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided to individuals who are unable to use this online system due to a disability.

To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail]