Lead Technician

Mach Industries; Huntington Beach (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Mach Industries in Huntington Beach is looking for a Lead Technician to oversee the fabrication and assembly of advanced hardware for unmanned defense platforms. You will guide junior technicians and maintain high quality and efficiency standards.

The role requires hands-on experience in aerospace or defense, proficiency with tools, and ability to interpret engineering specifications. Competitive compensation and benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of hands-on technical experience in aerospace, defense, automotive, marine, or a related industry.
• Comfortable working in controlled or specialized environments.
• Physical capability to lift 25+ lbs.

Responsibilities

• Perform fabrication, assembly, integration, and finishing of components.
• Mentor junior technicians and uphold quality standards.
• Troubleshoot build and integration issues.

Skills

Hands-on technical experience

Ability to read engineering drawings

Proficiency with hand and power tools

Working in fast-paced environments

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Power tools

Precision measuring equipment

Job description

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next‑generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting‑edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

As a Lead Technician, you will execute and oversee the fabrication, assembly, integration, and finishing of advanced hardware systems supporting unmanned defense platforms. You will contribute to both rapid prototype builds (where adaptability and problem‑solving are critical) and production builds (where consistency, repeatability, and quality drive mission success).

In addition to performing hands‑on technical work at a high level, you will serve as a technical leader, mentoring junior technicians, maintaining high standards of workmanship, and driving team efficiency and quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform hands‑on technical work including fabrication, assembly, integration, testing, and finishing of components and systems, depending on assigned area (composites, avionics, integration, etc.).
• Operate relevant equipment, tooling, and machinery required for build and assembly processes.
• Interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and work instructions to accurately complete builds.
• Execute precision work including fitting, drilling, bonding, fastening, wiring, or machining to tight tolerances.
• Conduct in‑process inspections, verifying dimensions, identifying defects, and ensuring adherence to quality standards.
• Support prototype builds by adapting processes, working closely with engineering, and capturing lessons learned.
• Support production builds by following controlled processes, ensuring repeatability, and meeting takt time and delivery targets.
• Maintain clean, organized, and controlled work environments, especially when handling sensitive materials or equipment.
• Maintain and care for tools, equipment, and fixtures; identify wear or issues and support continuous improvement efforts.
• Uphold all safety, quality, and documentation standards in line with defense and aerospace requirements.
• Troubleshoot build and integration issues, escalating or resolving problems as needed.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior technicians, promoting best practices and skill development.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 2+ years of hands‑on technical experience in aerospace, defense, automotive, marine, or a related industry
• Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring equipment
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, high‑expectation environment with tight tolerances
• Comfortable wearing PPE and working in controlled or specialized environments (e.g., cleanroom, shop floor, integration lab)
• Physical capability to lift 25+ lbs., stand for extended periods, and perform hands‑on technical work

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting both development (prototype) and production environments
• Familiarity with multiple technical domains (e.g., composites, avionics, mechanical assembly, integration, or testing)
• Experience troubleshooting and resolving build or integration issues
• Knowledge of aerospace or defense quality standards and documentation practices
• Cross‑functional experience (e.g., structures, electrical systems, coatings, or assembly)
• Previous experience mentoring or training other technicians
• Experience working in environments where processes are evolving or not fully defined

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E‑Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I‑9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws.