Lead AIT Engineer

Position Overview

As the Lead Engineer for Manufacturing, Assembly, Integration, and Test, you will lead the set up and operation of a facility for assembly, integration, and test of propulsion systems for various spacecraft that will be performing in-space refueling missions of valuable satellite assets.

About This Company

Parabilis designs, develops, tests, and fly’s affordable in-space propulsion and small satellite solutions. This aerospace company is one of the few companies in the world that has both propulsion and satellite capabilities under one roof.

We are leveraging the space heritage of our team to build an exciting and growing company that will meet the current and future needs of our customers and provide a challenging and fun place for our employees to pursue their dreams. Our current programs include a lunar transfer stage for NASA, multiple propulsion systems for government and commercial space refueling missions, a Cube-Sat-scale propulsion system for the US Space Force, and a rapid ASCENT propellant loading system for the DoD.

A day in the life for this position – get ready to think big, work smart and shine brightly.

• Lead the effort to layout and set up a facility for Assembly, Integration, and Test of propulsion systems.
• Provide oversight to technician support staff.
• Oversee (daily) assembly, integration, and environmental testing activities; ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.
• Accountable to deliver a product to the customer that meets quality standards and performance specifications.
• Construct test procedures and act as the test conductor to verify hardware health and process integrity.
• Lead the assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) of space-rated propulsion systems.
• Oversee and contribute to the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes.
• Review engineering drawings.
• Develop, document, and maintain detailed work instructions, process flow diagrams, and test procedures for manufacturing operations.
• Lead fabrication of tubing sub-assemblies and high dollar flight components in a clean room environment using orbital welding.
• Direct and collaborate with technicians, providing guidance and support to ensure the successful execution of manufacturing and testing activities.
• Coordinate with the Program Manager to track and ensure AI&T objectives and timelines and objectives are met.
• Develop, document, and maintain detailed work instructions, process flow diagrams, and test procedures for manufacturing operations.
• Conduct failure analysis, root cause investigations, and implement corrective actions to resolve issues in the production process.
• Collaborate closely with design engineers to ensure manufacturability of components and systems, providing feedback to improve designs.
• Work on both military and commercial aerospace programs, ensuring adherence to specific requirements and regulations.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Apply cleanroom best practices in ISO Class 100,000 environments, ensuring adherence to contamination control standards during assembly and testing processes.
  
  

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Manufacturing Engineering.
• 5 years or more of experience in manufacturing engineering within the aerospace industry.
• 3 years or more of experience in the assembly, integration, and acceptance/qualification testing of space systems.
• 3 years or more of experience planning and conducting hazardous operations, e.g. hydrostatic proof testing.
• Relevant experience with fluid systems, including tube bending and routing, component selection, P&IDs, and PHAs.
• Relevant experience interpreting and creating engineering drawings using GD&T per ASME Y14.5.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to think creatively to overcome challenges.
• Thorough understanding of aerospace quality standards, including AS9100 and ISO 9001.
• S. citizenship/US person.
  
  

Desirable Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, startup environment, with a track record of successfully managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
• Experience working on military and commercial aerospace programs.
• Experience with chemical and electric space propulsion systems
• Experience with mill, lathe and/or other machining experience.
• CREO/ProE knowledge and experience.
• Ability to write clearly, precisely, and concisely; ability to organize, construct, and write important documents such as proposals or program reports.
• Familiarity with and ability to write clear processes/procedures; ability to identify when something is or isn’t a process deviation; ability to conduct process hazard analysis.
• Ability to come up with solutions for common problems and roadblocks.
  
  

The primary work location for this position is San Marcos, CA. This position may require occasional travel.

Compensation

Annual Salary Range ($115,000 – $171,000)

Depending on the level of experience and qualifications of the candidate, the compensation package for this position may be adjusted. The adjusted range will be provided to the candidates by the Recruiter when applicable.

Wait There is More

Parabilis is a small company, this client relies on the capabilities and good judgement of its employees. We prefer to unleash the talent of our employees rather than trying to control it with hierarchy or excessive bureaucracy. Subsequently, the person selected for this position will be trusted and empowered to act in the best interest of this client and its customers. Every person at this company contributes outside of their primary area of technical expertise (that’s how learning occurs) and helps to propose/win new business for our growing company. If you like variety, this job will be fulfilling and fun.

Parabilis Space Technologies is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.