Mass Properties Technician

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions; Crane (IN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

401(k) Savings Plan

Paid Time-Off (PTO)

Holidays

Education Reimbursement

Job summary

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions is seeking a Mass Properties Technician to operate a spin balance system (Raptor POI-3500) and perform precision mass property measurements for aerospace payloads. You will prepare hardware, verify calibration, and document data while adhering to safety and procedures.

The role requires a technical Associate degree or equivalent experience, 1–3 years in metrology or precision measurement labs, and the ability to obtain DoD SECRET clearance.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Mechanical Technology, Electronics Technology, or a related technical field; or equivalent technical/military experience.
• 1–3 years hands-on experience in metrology, mechanical testing, spin balancing, or precision measurement labs preferred.
• Experience with DoD SECRET clearance is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor the spin balance machine to perform mass properties measurements (mass, CG, MOI, POI).
• Prepare test articles and fixtures per engineering requirements and test plans.
• Verify calibration and configuration of the spin balance system before testing.
• Record and document measurement data clearly per procedures.
• Follow safety protocols and configuration control; troubleshoot fixtures and setup issues.
• Maintain and calibrate spin balance tools and equipment.

Skills

Precision measurement

Mechanical aptitude

Engineering drawings

Detail oriented

Teamwork

MS Office

DoD clearance

Education

Associate degree in Mechanical/ Electronics Technology or related field

1–3 years metrology/precision measurement experience

Tools

Balancers

Metrology systems

Load cells

Rotational sensors

Job description

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY

The Mass Properties Technician performs precision mass properties measurements to support aerospace payload development, integration, and qualifications. This role operates the facility’s spin balance machine (Raptor POI-3500) to determine mass, center of gravity (CG), moments of inertia (MOI), and products of inertia (POI) for a wide range of test articles. The technician prepares hardware for testing, configures the machine for accurate measurements, monitors data output, performs corrections based on mission requirements, and ensures all activities follow documented procedures and safety requirements. The position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and familiarity with sensitive measurement equipment in a mission-driven testing environment.

LOCATION

• Crane, IN

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

PRIMARY

• Set up, operate, and monitor the spin balance machine to perform mass properties measurements including mass, CG, MOI, and POI.
• Prepare test articles, fixtures, and mounting configurations according to engineering requirements and test plans.
• Verify the calibration, readiness, and proper configuration of the spin balance system prior to testing.
• Collect, review, and document measurement data clearly and accurately in accordance with established procedures.
• Follow all safety protocols, equipment handling guidelines, and configuration control requirements.
• Work with engineers to troubleshoot fixtures, measurement inconsistencies, or machine setup issues.
• Maintain the spin balance machine, tools, and measurement equipment in a calibrated, clean, and ready-for-use state.

SECONDARY

• Assist in developing or refining spin balance fixtures, adapters, and mounting solutions.
• Track consumables, hardware, and measurement accessories; support inventory and replenishment processes.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts to enhance measurement repeatability, efficiency, and data reliability.
• Support pre-test readiness checks and post-test data reviews as required.
• Provide feedback on test instructions and technical documentation to improve clarity and execution quality.
• Coordinate with the Mass Properties Engineer, mission teams, and payload integration staff as measurement needs evolve.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

Limited supervisory responsibility

Experience And Skills

JOB SKILLS - Required

• Hands-on experience with precision mechanical or measurement equipment (balancers, metrology systems, load cells, etc.).
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to assemble fixtures, secure test articles, and follow precise setup instructions.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, test plans, and technical documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate data recording and configuration control.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills in a lab-based environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite for basic reporting and data organization.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD SECRET clearance.

Preferred

• Prior experience with mass properties measurements, spin balancing, or aerospace payload testing.
• Familiarity with measurement instrumentation such as load cells, accelerometers, or rotational sensors.
• Exposure to mass properties principles including CG, MOI, and POI derivation.
• Background supporting mission-driven testing or fast-paced R&D environments.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate degree in Mechanical Technology, Electronics Technology, or a related technical field; or equivalent technical/military experience.
• 1–3 years of hands-on experience in metrology, mechanical testing, spin balancing, or precision measurement labs preferred.

Travel

• Up to 10%

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This role operates in a hands-on testing environment centered around spin balance equipment and precision measurement tools. The position requires strict adherence to safety procedures, equipment operating guidelines, and proper handling of sensitive payloads and test articles. Work involves preparing hardware, performing measurements, monitoring equipment, and completing documentation in a fast-paced, accuracy-driven laboratory environment. The technician must follow established ESD control practices, including proper grounding, safe handling of ESD-sensitive components, and maintaining ESD-protected work areas when required for specific test articles.

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affimative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

EEO Is The Law

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affimative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

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