Propulsion Test Technician

Astranis builds advanced satellites for high orbits, expanding humanity’s reach into the solar system. Today, Astranis satellites provide dedicated, secure networks to highly-sophisticated customers across the globe— large enterprises, sovereign governments, and the US military. With five satellites on orbit and many more set to launch soon, the company is servicing a backlog of more than $1 billion of commercial contracts.

Astranis is the preferred satellite communications partner for buyers with stringent requirements for uptime, data security, network visibility, and customization. Astranis has raised over $750 million from some of the world’s best investors, from Andreessen Horowitz to Blackrock and Fidelity, and employs a team of 450 engineers and entrepreneurs. Astranis designs, builds, and operates its satellites out of its 153,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Northern California, USA.

Propulsion Test Technician

As a Propulsion Test Technician, you will be the hands-on force behind the hardware that maneuvers our satellites in orbit. You will transition designs from the engineering desk to the test stand, ensuring every valve, thruster, and propellant line is flight-ready. If you have a passion for high-pressure systems and a "zero-fail" mindset, you’ll fit right in.

Role

• Pressure Operations: Set up and execute Proof and Burst testing using high-pressure pneumatic (GN2, GHe) and hydrostatic systems.


• Leak Detection: Perform ultra-sensitive leak detection using helium sniffers or vacuum detection methods


• Functional Checkout: Conduct end-to-end functional tests on solenoid valves, regulators, and transducers to verify cracking pressures and flow coefficients


• Build custom test manifolds and "ground support equipment" (GSE)


• Install and calibrate pressure transducers, thermocouples, and flow meters; interface with DAQ systems to record real-time test data


• Troubleshooting: Identify the root cause of "no-go" test results—distinguishing between a legitimate hardware failure and a test-setup artifact


• Safety First: Maintain a pristine cleanroom environment and strictly adhere to safety protocols for high-pressure gases and hazardous propellants


• Act as the primary owner of the propulsion test cell and maintain a pristine, organized workspace (5S standards)

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in aerospace, automotive, oil & gas, or a similar high-stakes technical field


• Experience with pneumatics or hydraulics


• Deep proficiency with fluid system components (regulators, check valves, solenoid valves, transducers).


• Experience with torque wrenches, tube benders, and flared fittings


• Ability to read and interpret complex P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams) and CAD drawings.


• Familiar with windows style PC operating systems


• Strong communication and teamwork skills


• Climbing ladders, long durations of standing, grasping, sitting, pulling, and physical bending movements


• Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs unassisted


• Willing and able to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as required


• Willing and able to travel to support off-site launch site processing and environmental testing

Bonus

• Experience in the aerospace industry


• Experience with handling and integrating space flight components and spacecraft environmental testing


• Hands-on experience using electrical test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, spectral analyzers, etc.)


• Experience with thermal vacuum (TVAC) chambers or cryogenics


• Basic familiarity with Python, LabVIEW, TwinCAT or automated test monitoring