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. 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:
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Perform advanced avionics PCBA assembly, rework, and testing activities for satellite and spacecraft development projects, following engineering specifications, IPC standards, and safety protocols.
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Execute expert-level troubleshooting, diagnosis, and rework of avionics PCBAs including component-level failure analysis, signal integrity verification, and functional testing.
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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.
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Conduct advanced PCBA repairs including trace repair, pad reconstruction, via repair, and wire bonding modifications.
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Utilize advanced diagnostic equipment including oscilloscopes, multimeters, and specialized avionics test equipment to identify and resolve complex electrical anomalies on PCBAs.
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Integrate avionics PCBAs into spacecraft systems, such as flight computers and power distribution units, ensuring proper installation, thermal management, and electromagnetic compatibility.
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Perform board-level functional testing and validation, including power sequencing verification, communication protocol testing (MIL-STD-1553, SpaceWire, CAN bus), and subsystem performance characterization.
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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.
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Collaborate closely with avionics engineers and other technicians to diagnose and resolve technical issues during PCBA assembly, integration, and post-test activities.
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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.
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Maintain accurate records of assembly activities, rework operations, test results, and any anomalies or discrepancies encountered using NCR processes.
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Contribute to continuous improvement, recommending efficiency enhancements while maintaining the highest quality standards.
Requirements:
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U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export-controlled data.
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Minimum 7+ years of experience in aerospace avionics PCBA assembly, rework, and troubleshooting, specifically with satellite or spacecraft flight hardware.
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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.
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Demonstrated expertise in PCBA repair operations including trace repair, pad lifting repair, via repair, and solder mask repair.
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Certification or demonstrated proficiency in IPC J-STD-001 (Space Applications) and IPC-A-610 Class 3 standards (certifications strongly preferred).
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Working knowledge of harness integration including crimping per AS13002, connector assembly, and cable routing per IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3 standards.
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Experience with ESD controls per ANSI/ESD S20.20 and cleanroom protocols for flight hardware assembly and rework.
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Proficiency with precision rework equipment including hot air rework stations, BGA rework systems, temperature-controlled soldering stations, preheaters, and stereoscopic microscopes.
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Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, schematics, assembly drawings, IPC standards, specifications, and technical documents.
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Ability to work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with avionics engineers, quality engineers, and technicians.
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Strong commitment to safety and quality, always adhering to FOD prevention, ESD protocols, and safety guidelines.
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IPC Specialist or Master level certifications in J-STD-001 and A-610