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Apex manufactures satellite buses (spacecraft platforms) at scale for the commercial space industry. The company combines software, vertical integration, and hardware designed for manufacturing to enable earth observation, communications, and other space-based applications.
As a Propulsion Test Technician, you will support hands-on testing of spacecraft propulsion hardware in a fast-paced, production-oriented environment. You'll work directly with propulsion engineers to execute qualification and acceptance testing as Apex scales manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities:
- Set up, execute, and tear down propulsion tests on thrusters, flow controllers, power processing units (PPUs), and related hardware
- Operate propulsion test stands, vacuum chambers, pumping systems, instrumentation, and data acquisition equipment
- Install and remove test articles, including fluid connections, electrical interfaces, sensors, and ground support equipment (GSE)
- Perform pre-test checkouts to verify hardware configuration, instrumentation, and safety before operation
- Execute test procedures and monitor hardware, instrumentation, and facility systems throughout testing
- Perform routine and preventive maintenance on test stands, vacuum chambers, pumps, instrumentation, and GSE
- Troubleshoot test equipment and hardware issues alongside engineers to minimize downtime
- Monitor equipment health and identify potential failures or maintenance needs proactively
- Maintain test cells, tooling, equipment, and consumables in organized, calibrated, and ready-to-run condition
- Maintain accurate test logs, as-run documentation, configuration records, and equipment maintenance history
- Provide feedback to engineering on test procedures, tooling, equipment, and processes to improve safety, reliability, and efficiency
- Follow safety requirements for vacuum systems, pressurized systems, high-voltage hardware, and other hazardous operations
- Support production-rate qualification and acceptance testing as the company scales
Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- 3+ years of hands-on experience in a test, lab, manufacturing, maintenance, or similar technical environment
- Hands-on experience using hand tools, power tools, torque tools, fasteners, tubing and fittings, and electrical cabling
- Ability to read and follow technical procedures, engineering drawings, schematics, and work instructions
- Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot hardware and equipment issues
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate test and maintenance documentation
- Safety-first mindset and ability to work around pressurized systems, high voltage, vacuum equipment, and other hazardous operations
- Ability to work effectively with engineers and technicians in a fast-paced, hands-on environment
- Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual) as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15)
Nice to Haves:
- Technical or vocational training, military technical experience, or an associate degree in a relevant field
- Experience operating vacuum chambers, vacuum pumps, or other test and laboratory equipment
- Experience installing and troubleshooting test instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems
- Experience with fluid systems, pressurized gases, propellant systems, or high-voltage electrical hardware
- Experience supporting propulsion, aerospace, or spacecraft test operations
- Experience with qualification, acceptance, or production-rate testing
- Familiarity with preventive maintenance and calibration practices for test equipment and instrumentation
- Experience working under range safety or hazardous operations requirements
