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Propulsion Technician

Astro Mechanica

Astro Mechanica

Software Engineering
San Francisco, CA, USA
USD 100k-140k / year + Equity
Posted on Nov 7, 2025

Location

San Francisco

Employment Type

Full time

Department

Manufacturing

Compensation

  • $100K – $140K

ABOUT US:

Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.

WHO WE ARE:

We're a team of hardcore engineers who live and breathe aerospace. We’re generalists who each have subject matter expertise and operate in a flat organizational structure. We move fast and build world-changing technology in a pragmatic and competent workplace culture.

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

  • Conducts 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:

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.

Compensation Range: $100K - $140K