Mechanical Technician - Test & Launch Ops

Blue Origin; Van Horn (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Living allowance for eligible employees

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Job summary

Blue Origin is seeking a Test Stand Build and Integration Technician in Van Horn, Texas, to support building and integration for new test capabilities. This role requires a commitment to safety and attention to detail while collaborating with a passionate team.

The ideal candidate has over 3 years of relevant experience in fabrication, works well independently and as a team member, and can handle mechanical tools safely. Relocation assistance is available for eligible employees.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3+ years with hands-on experience in fabrication or integration.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Ability to lift 40 lbs and work from heights.

Responsibilities

• Build test stand sub-assemblies like pneumatic panels.
• Integrate components to fielded test stands.
• Safely work with hazardous chemicals and high-pressure systems.

Skills

Hands-on experience in fabrication

Knowledge of safety procedures

Ability to work with mechanical tools

Experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems

Education

3+ years in related industry (e.g., aerospace)

Associate degree or trade school training

Tools

GTAW/GMAW welding equipment

Calibrated equipment

Job description

Application close date: Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.

This role is part of Advanced Concepts and Enterprise Engineering (ACE), supporting Blue Origin's mission of millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. The team fosters innovation and drives engineering workflows of the future, shared solutions and standards, simplicity and lower costs, and manufacturable design.

We are a team of collaborators, doers, and problem-solvers who are relentlessly committed to a culture of safety. This position will directly impact the history of space exploration and will require your commitment and detailed attention towards safe and repeatable space flight. Join us in lowering the cost of access to space and enabling Blue Origin's vision of millions of people living and working in space to benefit Earth.

As part of a small, passionate and accomplished team of Test Stand Build and Integration Technicians, you will support the build, fabrication, assembly, and integration of new test stands and upgrades to existing test stands for both engine and component test facilities. You will demonstrate operational excellence in the fabrication and integration for new test capabilities as well as reviewing, improving, and following procedures and processes. Working with Shift Lead, Ground System Development Engineers, and the Build Manager on executing daily scheduled tasks. You will safely work with hazardous chemicals and high-pressure fluid systems. Finally, you will identify opportunities for continuous improvements to promote workplace safety, achieve cost-savings, and make test stand builds more streamlined. We are looking for someone to apply their technical expertise, leadership skills, and commitment to quality to positively impact safe human spaceflight. Passion for our mission and vision is required!

Special Mentions

• Relocation provided
• Shifts available: Mon-Mon 8 on/6 off (10-hr shifts)
• Interviews will include a technical assessment

Van Horn Specific information

Being at the heart of Blue Origin operations, the West Texas Site in Van Horn, TX offers eligible employee's additional attractive financial incentives to supplement their competitive base earnings, including a living allowance and relocation assistance. Eligibility for these additional benefits is based on the employee's ability to permanently relocate to Van Horn, TX, or travel to Van Horn from another Blue location a minimum of 50% of the time.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to

• Build of test stand sub-assemblies (e.g. pneumatic panels)
• Integration of the sub-assemblies and components to the fielded test stand.
• Work with Ground System Development engineering to execute the daily schedule based on the two-week forecast and construction schedules.
• Fabrication (tube bending) and routing of tubing.
• GTAW/GMAW, Orbital Tube Welding (OTW), light fabrication stands/structures
• Installation and checkout of wire harnesses electrical components and instrumentation
• Reviewing work instructions for accuracy and providing feedback to Build Engineers
• Provide feedback to engineers on design concepts/improvements and ground system development
• Safely working with hazardous chemicals, cryogenics, and high-pressure systems
• Understanding of 5S and FOD control procedures and Quality Management System (AS9100)
• Overseeing external contractor work to ensure safe and competent completion of work scope to workmanship and technical standards.
• Lead pre-task briefings for work tasks.
• Maintain the highest standards and work practices for all work being performed

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum 3+ years with hands‑on experience in fabrication, build, and/or integration of hardware in a related industry (e.g. aerospace, aviation, military, oil and gas, nuclear).
• Motivated self‑starter with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work varying work schedules and shifts.
• Attention to Detail and focus on Safety and Quality (High Workmanship standards)
• Strong character and work ethic.
• Knowledge of and ability to safely work with standard mechanical tools and shop fabrication equipment with required PPE.
• Ability to identify non‑conformances and support the implementation of corrective actions.
• Experience with hydraulic, pneumatic, and/or pressurized gas/fluid systems.
• Ability to interpret P&ID schematics, engineering models, drawings, specifications, written work instructions, and test procedures.
• Proficient computer skills and MS Office
• Able to lift 40 lbs.; work from heights (excess of 150') and in varying weather conditions; climb stairs and ladders. Physical capability for climbing, lifting, and performing tasks that involve mobility.
• Build and sustain positive, professional relationships while fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree, industry certification, and/or trade school training in a relevant field
• 5+ years of hands‑on experience in aerospace, oil and gas, or other related industries working hazardous, pressurized systems.
• Proficiency with calibrated equipment, GSE/fittings, and various test instrumentation and control components.
• Strong technical and leadership skills with attention to detail, especially when leading teams on complex integration tasks.
• In-depth knowledge of cryogenics propellants including LOx, LH2, LN2, and LNG, or other cryogenic commodities.
• Experience operating heavy lifting equipment such as cranes and forklifts around flight critical hardware.
• CDL with Haz Mat endorsement
• Certified Welder for structural and high‑pressure pipe.

Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

• Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check
• Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
• Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.
• Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre‑employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

• Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
• Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
• Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company‑paid holidays.
• Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's affirmative action plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at [e-mail]. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.