Flight Hardware Technician

Job ID: 4547
Join the Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) team, where you'll contribute to groundbreaking innovations! We are seeking applicants for an experienced Technician to join our Civil Space Division.
The Civil & Commercial Space Division is at the forefront of scientific research and space exploration. We equip major Government and commercial missions with calibrated state-of-the-art sensors and satellites. We also provide world-class AI&T technologies and mission management. Our projects include challenges across planetary science, Earth observation, heliophysics, and astrophysics. Be part of a team that pushes the boundaries of what's possible in space and contributes to monumental scientific discoveries.
Key Responsibilities:

• Develops or evaluates test procedures and determines systems requirements
• Diagnoses and corrects equipment and system malfunctions that fail to respond to standard corrective measures
• Performs cleanroom operations and assembly of hardware in cleanroom environment
• Participates in design modifications in the development of systems or protype models
• Writes or interprets specifications used in designing, maintaining, and calibrating mechanical systems, chassis, or components
• Generates rough sketches and engineering drawings and special techniques for control and implementation of research experiments
• Prepares reports, charts, and graphs, for scientific or engineering personnel to use in making decisions on design or experiment development
• Performs vacuum systems assembly and leak testing

• Must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain US Government Security Clearance
• Must have a high school diploma and 10+ years of relevant experience, or relevant certification and 9+ years of relevant experience, or an AS and 8+ years of relevant experience
• Ability to mentor junior Technicians
• Ability to establish good rapport with members of management and customers
• Highly skilled at a variety of hand operations typical of technical assembly
• Ability to develop test procedures for technical systems
• Knowledge of thermal vacuum testing and cleanroom operations
• Ability to troubleshoot technical systems and assist in general research work
• Ability to effectively analyze drawings, bills of material (BOMs), and travelers
• Ability to contribute to team efforts to troubleshoot, determine root cause, and interface with Design/Engineers to continuously improve documentation and processes
• Proficiency at a variety of hand operations typical of technical assemble
• Ability to read and interpret technical schematics, drawings, and diagrams
• Knowledge of MS Office
• Ability to assemble prototype, ground, and flight hardware
• Ability to NASA certify for soldering and cable/crimp/harness assembly
• Ability to work effectively both individually and within a team environment
• Demonstrated strong attention to detail
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Occasional support during evening and weekend shifts required when certain testing requires it

• Must be able to perform physical activities which require considerable use of arms, legs, and moving entire body such as climbing, lifting (approximately 50 lbs.), balancing, walking, stopping, and handling of materials
• Must be able to spend substantial time standing
• Ability to utilize visual acuity or reasonable accommodations and finger dexterity to work with small parts
• Ability to utilize hearing or reasonable accommodation to diagnose audible machine issues (i.e., pitch change, valve closure, end mil break, etc.)

• Knowledge of geometrical optics
• Proficiency in the usage of wavefront measuring interferometers, theodolites, and alignment telescopes
• Knowledge of complex reflective and refractive optical systems
• Proficiency in the usage of laser tracker and coordinate measuring machine
• Experience with optical hardware integration, maintenance, alignment, and testing
• Experience with optical adhesive bonding

• $59,000 - $85,000
  • Salary commensurate based on education and relevant experience

This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate's preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.

Why Join SDL?
*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.