Apex - Spacecraft Manufacturing · 3 months ago
Spacecraft Avionics Technician
Los Angeles
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$45/hr - $55/hr
7+ years expApex Technology, Inc. is a fast-growing startup focused on providing access to space through the manufacturing of satellite buses. The Spacecraft Avionics Technician will be responsible for the assembly, integration, and testing of spacecraft avionics, ensuring quality and compliance with standards throughout the operations.
AerospaceCommercialManufacturing
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Perform advanced avionics PCBA assembly, rework, and testing activities for satellite and spacecraft development projects, following engineering specifications, IPC standards, and safety protocols
Execute expert-level troubleshooting, diagnosis, and rework of avionics PCBAs including component-level failure analysis, signal integrity verification, and functional testing
Perform precision soldering, desoldering, and component rework operations including SMT and through-hole components, BGA/CSP rework, micro-miniature soldering, and fine-pitch device replacement in accordance with IPC J-STD-001 Space Addendum and IPC-7711/7721 standards
Conduct advanced PCBA repairs including trace repair, pad reconstruction, via repair, and wire bonding modifications
Utilize advanced diagnostic equipment including oscilloscopes, multimeters, and specialized avionics test equipment to identify and resolve complex electrical anomalies on PCBAs
Integrate avionics PCBAs into spacecraft systems, such as flight computers and power distribution units, ensuring proper installation, thermal management, and electromagnetic compatibility
Perform board-level functional testing and validation, including power sequencing verification, communication protocol testing (MIL-STD-1553, SpaceWire, CAN bus), and subsystem performance characterization
Execute harness integration and rework operations including connector installation to PCBAs, wire repair, splice repair, and shield termination per IPC/WHMA-A-620 requirements as needed
Collaborate closely with avionics engineers and other technicians to diagnose and resolve technical issues during PCBA assembly, integration, and post-test activities
Ensure compliance with quality standards including IPC-A-610 Class 3, IPC J-STD-001 Space Applications, IPC-7711/7721, and NASA workmanship standards throughout all PCBA operations
Maintain accurate records of assembly activities, rework operations, test results, and any anomalies or discrepancies encountered using NCR processes
Contribute to continuous improvement, recommending efficiency enhancements while maintaining the highest quality standards
Participate in environmental testing support, ensuring PCBAs maintain functionality through thermal vacuum, vibration, and shock testing
Qualification
Required
U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export-controlled data
Minimum 7+ years of experience in aerospace avionics PCBA assembly, rework, and troubleshooting, specifically with satellite or spacecraft flight hardware
Expert-level proficiency in advanced PCBA rework techniques including SMT component removal/replacement, BGA/CSP rework, fine-pitch device soldering, and micro-miniature assembly per IPC J-STD-001 Space Addendum and IPC-7711/7721 standards
Demonstrated expertise in PCBA repair operations including trace repair, pad lifting repair, via repair, and solder mask repair
Certification or demonstrated proficiency in IPC J-STD-001 (Space Applications) and IPC-A-610 Class 3 standards (certifications strongly preferred)
Advanced troubleshooting skills with proven experience diagnosing complex PCBA failures using systematic fault isolation techniques and advanced test equipment
Working knowledge of harness integration including crimping per AS13002, connector assembly, and cable routing per IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3 standards
Experience with ESD controls per ANSI/ESD S20.20 and cleanroom protocols for flight hardware assembly and rework
Proficiency with precision rework equipment including hot air rework stations, BGA rework systems, temperature-controlled soldering stations, preheaters, and stereoscopic microscopes
Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, schematics, assembly drawings, IPC standards, specifications, and technical documents
Excellent attention to detail with exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills for component-level root cause analysis
Ability to work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with avionics engineers, quality engineers, and technicians
Strong commitment to safety and quality, always adhering to FOD prevention, ESD protocols, and safety guidelines
Excellent communication skills with ability to document technical findings and rework procedures clearly and concisely
Preferred
IPC Specialist or Master level certifications in J-STD-001 and A-610
IPC-7711/7721 (Rework, Modification and Repair of Electronic Assemblies) certification
Experience with NASA Class 1 or 2 flight hardware PCBAs
Experience with military and aerospace communication protocols and avionics systems
Benefits
Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social gatherings for you and your family
Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
World-class Playa Vista office with EV chargers, with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference
Company
Apex - Spacecraft Manufacturing
Apex was founded to solve one of the space industry’s biggest challenges: the satellite production bottleneck.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$522MKey Investors
Interlagos CapitalAndreessen Horowitz
2025-09-12Series D· $200M
2025-04-29Series C· $200M
2024-06-11Series B· $95M
Leadership Team
Ian Cinnamon
Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder
Recent News
2026-01-12
Company data provided by crunchbase