Astra · 5 months ago
Development Technician
Alameda, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Entry Level
$50/hr - $60/hr
2+ years expAstra is dedicated to improving life on Earth from space by offering innovative launch services and propulsion systems. The Development Technician will be responsible for the fabrication and assembly of Rocket 4, ensuring the reliability and performance of rocket components through hands-on work and collaboration with engineering teams.
AerospaceSatellite CommunicationSpace Travel
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Able to read, understand, follow and provide feedback on work instructions and engineering drawings
Document development projects, tests and work instructions
Basic CAD navigation skills
Ability to work inside tanks, confined spaces, on platforms and around moving machinery
Experience with inspection of parts and materials including the use of measuring and inspection tools such as: Calipers, Micrometers, Engineers scales, Pi tapes, Dial indicators, Plug gauges
Proficient with sheet metal and tube fabrication tools including; Sheet metal brake, Press brake, Shear, Slip roller both powered and manual, Tube roller, Band saw, Cold saw, Hydraulic press, Drill press, Manual mill and Lathe, Hand drills, grinders, sanders, Deburring hand tools, Riveting tools, CherryMax and solid rivets, Nutplates, Click bond and riveted, TIG/MIG/laser welding manual and semi automated, Welding positioner setup, Waterjet operation and programming, Tube bending and flaring, Composites and vacuum bagging, Crane, forklift, and rigging, Painting
Assemble and integrate complicated assemblies such as: Experience with hand tools, Fastener Torqueing and Torque Marking, Helicoil and Key insert install, Fluidic fastener and Fitting installation, Experience with AN,ORB, swaglock, Harness installation and routing, Safety Wire and cable, Lox Cleaning
Test Support: Assist in setup, execution, and teardown of system tests—including high pressure proof testing, leak testing, flow testing and load testing
Maintain Systems: Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of vacuum hardware, pumps, and instrumentation
Safety First: Follow safety protocols around high voltage, pressure systems, and hazardous materials
Data Logging & Documentation: Support test execution by logging data, completing checklists, and ensuring proper documentation of procedures and outcomes
Cross-Team Collaboration: Work closely with engineering (test, design, manufacturing and software) and manufacturing technicians to ensure smooth and safe operations
Troubleshoot Issues: Diagnose and resolve problems with build/test hardware, instrumentation, and manufacturing equipment in real time
Qualification
Required
Able to read, understand, follow and provide feedback on work instructions and engineering drawings
Document development projects, tests and work instructions
Basic CAD navigation skills
Ability to work inside tanks, confined spaces, on platforms and around moving machinery
Experience with inspection of parts and materials including the use of measuring and inspection tools such as: Calipers, Micrometers, Engineers scales, Pi tapes, Dial indicators, Plug gauges
Proficient with sheet metal and tube fabrication tools including; Sheet metal brake, Press brake, Shear, Slip roller both powered and manual, Tube roller, Band saw, Cold saw, Hydraulic press, Drill press, Manual mill and Lathe, Hand drills, grinders, sanders, Deburring hand tools, Riveting tools, CherryMax and solid rivets, Nutplates, Click bond and riveted, TIG/MIG/laser welding manual and semi automated, Welding positioner setup, Waterjet operation and programming, Tube bending and flaring, Composites and vacuum bagging, Crane, forklift, and rigging, Painting
Assemble and integrate complicated assemblies such as: Experience with hand tools, Fastener Torqueing and Torque Marking, Helicoil and Key insert install, Fluidic fastener and Fitting installation, Experience with AN,ORB, swaglock, Harness installation and routing, Safety Wire and cable, Lox Cleaning
Test Support: Assist in setup, execution, and teardown of system tests—including high pressure proof testing, leak testing, flow testing and load testing
Maintain Systems: Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of vacuum hardware, pumps, and instrumentation
Safety First: Follow safety protocols around high voltage, pressure systems, and hazardous materials
Data Logging & Documentation: Support test execution by logging data, completing checklists, and ensuring proper documentation of procedures and outcomes
Cross-Team Collaboration: Work closely with engineering (test, design, manufacturing and software) and manufacturing technicians to ensure smooth and safe operations
Troubleshoot Issues: Diagnose and resolve problems with build/test hardware, instrumentation, and manufacturing equipment in real time
2+ years of hands-on experience working in sheet metal fabrication, complicated mechanical assemblies, or manual machining
Proven troubleshooting skills in mechanical and fluidic systems
Willingness to work non-standard hours (evenings/weekends) as needed to support mission-critical testing
You take pride in high-quality, detail-oriented work
High school diploma or GED required
Preferred
Technical certification or associate degree in a related field preferred
Experience in aerospace or space startup environments
Experience with cryogenics and high pressure gas systems
Familiarity with aerospace sheet metal and propellant pressure vessel built and testing
The ability to think critically, troubleshoot under pressure, and adapt quickly to evolving build and test conditions
Company
Astra
Astra is a rocket launch startup that provides satellite delivery and launch services.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$390.9MKey Investors
BlackRock
2023-11-06Post Ipo Debt· $13.4M
2023-08-04Post Ipo Debt· $12.5M
2023-07-10Post Ipo Equity· $65M
Leadership Team
Chris Kemp
Founder and CEO
Adam London
Founder and CTO
Recent News
2025-12-06
Canaan Partners
2025-12-03
2025-10-25
Company data provided by crunchbase