Harness Technician II (IPC-620 Certified)
Department: Production & Test
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Hawthorne, California
Reporting To: Clint Ross
Compensation: $33.00 - $51.00 / hour
Description
Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity’s presence in the solar system. We seek motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.
We are seeking an experienced Harness Technician II with demonstrated expertise in wire harness fabrication, integration, and testing in accordance with IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3 standards. The ideal candidate has a strong background in aerospace-grade harness builds, familiarity with system-level routing, and can provide technical guidance to junior team members.
What you'll do:
- Fabricate, route, and terminate complex wire harnesses and cable assemblies based on engineering drawings and IPC-620 standards
- Read and interpret detailed blueprints, schematics, wiring diagrams, and build documentation with minimal supervision
- Perform advanced crimping, soldering, splicing, and potting techniques; apply shielding, braiding, and overmolding when required
- Conduct detailed inspections and functional tests, ensuring compliance with IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3 workmanship standards
- Troubleshoot electrical issues, continuity faults, and connector mismatches across prototype and flight hardware
- Lead or assist with harness integration on testbeds, vehicles, and electromechanical assemblies
- Collaborate with engineers and production teams on design feedback and continuous process improvements
- Create or review work instructions, inspection criteria, and harness routing documentation
- Mentor junior technicians on best practices, tool usage, and quality standards
- Maintain strict adherence to ESD protocols, safety procedures, and cleanliness requirements in a fast-paced R&D environment
What you'll bring:
- Certification in IPC/WHMA-A-620 is preferred. Willing to pursue recertification if needed
- 3–5+ years of experience in wire harness/cable assembly for aerospace, defense, or mission-critical hardware
- Expert knowledge of MIL-SPEC components, aerospace wiring practices, and high-reliability termination techniques
- Strong experience using hand tools, automated crimping/soldering equipment, and continuity/hipot testers
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex wiring diagrams, engineering drawings, and redlined documentation
- Proven ability to work independently and troubleshoot issues with minimal guidance
- Comfortable adapting to changing priorities in a fast-paced, prototype-focused environment
- Detail-oriented with strong documentation habits and a continuous improvement mindset
- Ability to support cross-functional collaboration and uphold high-quality standards across builds
Education & Certifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; technical trade school or associate degree preferred
- IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3 certification (preferred, or willingness to pursue)
- J-STD-001 certification is a plus
- Familiarity with NASA-STD-8739 is also desirable
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
- Standing, bending, and working with small components for extended periods
- Good vision and fine motor skills for precision electrical assembly work
What We Offer:
- Work with a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
- Ownership in the company
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with matching
- Flexible time off and parental leave
- On-site snacks, beverages, and 2x weekly lunches
- Flexible work environment