Manufacturing Technician

Firestorm; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity grants

Unlimited PTO

Medical, dental, vision plans

401(k) Retirement Savings Plan

Parental leave

Mental health resources

Job summary

Firestorm Labs is seeking a Manufacturing Technician in San Diego to build, inspect, and support UAV integration. You will assemble flight-critical structures, propulsion, and subsystems, following precise instructions and collaborating with engineers to meet stringent standards.

The role spans the full production lifecycle, from prep to final assembly and checkout. You will interpret drawings, conduct functional checks, and assist with part prep, post-processing, and material handling.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED or equivalent.
• US citizenship due to ITAR restrictions and ability to obtain DoW clearance.
• 2+ years hands-on mechanical assembly in UAV/aerospace/related field.
• Ability to follow detailed work instructions and engineering drawings.
• Experience with hand and power tools, precision instruments, and shop equipment.

Responsibilities

• Assemble UAV components, mechanical sub-systems, and structures per specifications.
• Ensure proper alignment, torque, and fastening of components.
• Interpret engineering drawings, exploded views, wiring diagrams, and build docs.
• Perform functional and mechanical checks to verify form, fit, and performance.
• Assist with part preparation tasks: deburring, trimming, polishing, cleaning.
• Support additive manufacturing, post-processing, racking, and material handling.

Skills

Mechanical assembly

UAV systems

Reading drawings

Hand tools

Precision instruments

Inspection

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Drill press

Band saw

Torque drivers

Calipers

3D printing equipment

Job description

At Firestorm Labs, we are building the future of distributed, mission-adaptive airpower for the modern warfighter. As a Manufacturing Technician, you will be directly responsible for building, inspecting, and supporting the integration of UAV systems that are deployed in real-world operational environments. You’ll assemble flight‑critical structures, propulsion systems, and subsystems using precise methods and tooling, while working closely with engineers and other technicians to ensure each vehicle meets rigorous mechanical and performance standards. Your work will span the full lifecycle of production — from part preparation and alignment through final assembly and checkout.

What You’ll Do

• Assemble UAV components, mechanical sub-systems, and structural assemblies according to detailed specifications and work instructions.
• Ensure proper alignment, torque, and fastening of mechanical and structural components.
• Interpret and follow engineering drawings, exploded views, wiring diagrams, and written build documentation.
• Perform functional and mechanical checks on assemblies to verify form, fit, and basic performance.
• Assist with part preparation tasks: deburring, hand trimming, polishing, and post‑cleaning.
• Support additive manufacturing operations (e.g., post‑processing, racking, unloading, and material handling).
• Conduct basic mechanical or electrical integration (e.g., servos, sensors, harnesses, and avionics installation).
• Operate shop equipment (e.g., drill press, band saw, air tools, torque drivers) safely and effectively.
• Assist with shop floor logistics: staging kits, moving materials, and supporting shipping/receiving.
• Perform light preventative maintenance: coolant checks, electronic rework, filter swaps.
• Maintain detailed build records, logs, and checklists for assemblies and tasks.
• Promptly identify, document, and communicate issues or discrepancies to the Manufacturing Supervisor or engineering team.
• Collaborate across teams to support iterative prototyping, teardowns, and rework cycles.
• Uphold 5S, FOD & ESD control, as well as shop cleanliness protocols on a daily basis.
• Adhere strictly to all safety procedures and report potential hazards or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Perform other tasks as directed, including general facility support or non‑production duties.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED or equivalent
• U.S. citizenship required due to ITAR regulations, and the ability to obtain and maintain a DoW security clearance.
• 2+ years of hands‑on experience in mechanical assembly, UAV systems, aerospace, automotive, machining, or a related technical field.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to follow detailed work instructions and engineering drawings.
• Experience with hand tools, power tools, precision instruments, and shop equipment.
• Able to inspect components visually and dimensionally to ensure compliance with spec.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with drones, UAVs, experimental aircraft, or aerospace vehicle integration.
• Familiarity with aerospace assembly methods: riveting, mechanical fasteners, nut plates, bonding, sealing.
• Exposure to additive manufacturing or CNC machining workflows.
• Experience conducting basic mechanical/electrical functional checks.
• Skilled in the use of calipers, height gauges, torque tools, and inspection equipment.
• Experience in a prototyping or low‑rate production environment.
• Comfortable with flexible schedules, second shifts, or occasional weekend work.

Work Environment

• Position is working onsite in San Diego CA. at Firestorm Headquarters
• Must be able to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50–75 lbs, and wear appropriate PPE.
• Exposure to power tools, metal powders, high‑temperature components, and 3D printing equipment.
• Regular work in a hands‑on, shop floor environment with exposure to powders, high‑temp components, and machinery.
• PPE is required and provided; adherence to all safety protocols and environmental controls is mandatory.
• Occasional travel (up to 10%) to partner sites, test sites, or vendor facilities may be required.
• Detail‑oriented, organized, and able to maintain clean documentation of work performed.
• Self‑directed and comfortable operating in a fast‑paced, cross‑functional environment.
• Strong communication skills and accountability in team‑based settings.

Compensation

• Hourly salary: $29 - $36, commensurate with experience
• Equity: Meaningful equity grant in a growth‑stage defense technology company

The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.

Benefits & Perks

Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, & trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast‑growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long‑term retirement goals
• Equity grants for new hires
• Unlimited PTO
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including holiday hiatuses in July & December.
• Generous Parental Leave
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• FSA
• DCFSA
• HSA
• Hospital Indemnity insurance
• Critical Illness insurance
• Accident insurance
• Basic Life/AD&D, short‑term and long‑term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
• Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work‑life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance

To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.

Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [e-mail] so we can provide the support you need.