Spacecraft Avionics Technician

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. 

About the Role

Apex Space is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Spacecraft Technician to join our dynamic team. As a Spacecraft Technician, you will play a critical role in the assembly, integration, and testing of our spacecraft. Your expertise in aerospace structures, avionics, and harnessing will be essential in ensuring the successful development and deployment of our advanced space systems.

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.

Requirements:

• 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 Qualifications:

• 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

Why Join Apex?

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series D funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

What We Offer For Full-time Employees:

• 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

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.