Propulsion Technician

Industrious Ventures; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 68,880 - 89,544; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) program and stock options

Flexible time-off policy

Flexible work environment

Job summary

Industrious Ventures, located in San Francisco, is looking for a skilled Propulsion Technician to join their manufacturing and prototyping team. The individual will play a vital role in fabricating high-performance aerospace components and needs 5+ years of experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Perks include comprehensive insurance, a flexible time-off policy, and a company culture that values in-office collaboration. This position emphasizes craftsmanship, problem-solving, and teamwork in developing next-generation aircraft.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on fabrication experience in aerospace, automotive, or fast-paced manufacturing environments.
• Demonstrated welding ability through prior projects; certifications are a strong plus.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, P&ID, and electrical schematics.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with design and engineering teams to optimize manufacturability.
• Contribute to prototype builds and rapid iteration cycles.
• Operate manual machine shop equipment and fabricate with sheet metal.

Skills

Welding multiple alloys

Hands-on fabrication experience

Mechanical aptitude

Ability to work autonomously

Attention to detail

Tools

Inspection equipment

Precision calibrated tools

Job description

Location

San Francisco

Employment Type

Full time

Location Type

On-site

Department

Manufacturing

Compensation

• $50 – $65 per hour

WHO YOU ARE

Astro Mechanica is seeking a Propulsion Technician to join our growing manufacturing and prototyping team. The ideal candidate is a highly skilled hands‑on builder who takes pride in crafting precise, high‑performance components that push the boundaries of aerospace engineering. You have a deep understanding of materials, fabrication techniques, and mechanical systems—and you thrive in an environment where speed, precision, and innovation intersect. Your work at Astro Mechanica will have a direct impact on the development of next‑generation high‑speed aircraft, contributing to both prototype and production systems that enable faster, more connected global travel. In this role, your mission will be to turn cutting‑edge designs into flight‑ready hardware through expert craftsmanship, problem‑solving, and close collaboration with our engineering and manufacturing teams.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Collaborate frequently with design and engineering teams to optimize manufacturability, ensure structural integrity, and refine fabrication processes.
• Contribute to prototype builds and rapid iteration cycles, supporting the full lifecycle from concept to test article.
• Maintain test facility operations and maintenance, troubleshoot problems, site cleanliness.
• Monitor and maintain sufficient inventory of equipment, supplies, and instrumentation.
• Operate manual machine shop equipment (drills, cutting tools, mills, lathes).
• Fabricate with sheet metal (forming, shearing, rolling, stamping).
• Material joining (GTAW welding, brazing, soldering, mechanical fastening).
• Fluid systems plumbing (tube routing, swaging, flaring).
• Harness assembly (crimping/soldering terminals, cable lacing, troubleshooting).
• Maneuver heavy objects with forklift, rigging equipment.
• Conduct work efficiently while in a safe and professional manner.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• Demonstrated welding ability through prior projects, welding multiple alloys; certification(s) a strong plus.
• 5+ years of hands‑on fabrication experience in aerospace, automotive, motorsports, or other fast‑paced manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with pressurized systems, fluid systems hardware and instrumentation.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, P&ID, electrical schematics.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of structural principles, materials, and joining methods.
• Ability to work autonomously and take ownership of high‑impact hardware builds under fast development timelines.
• Experience with inspection equipment and precision calibrated tools.
• Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks).
• Attentive to detail and committed to maintaining the highest levels of quality in all work.
• A team‑oriented mindset with a passion for building something extraordinary.
• Capable of lifting 35 pounds, stand for long periods, maneuver in restricted spaces, work low to ground and on raised platforms.

PERKS & BENEFITS

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• 401(k) program and transparent stock option plan.
• Self‑managed and flexible time‑off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time.
• Flexible work environment.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in‑office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.

Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.