Astranis is on a mission to bridge the digital divide by connecting the four billion people worldwide who currently lack internet access. We're doing this by building the next generation of smaller, more cost-effective spacecraft to bring the world online.
As a team, we’ve launched two satellites into orbit, signed ten commercial deals worth over $1 billion in revenue, raised over $500 million from top global investors, and recruited a team of over 300 world-class engineers. We all work out of our (legendary) San Francisco office, which was once used to build ships during the World Wars.
Our satellites, which operate from geostationary orbit (GEO), weigh only 400 kg and utilize a proprietary software-defined radio payload. Each satellite can connect over two million people, and we’re very excited for the impact we’ll soon have in the Philippines, Peru, Mexico, and more!
Backed by substantial funding and a passionate, collaborative team, we offer a rewarding work environment where you'll learn and make a significant impact, no matter where you are in your career.
Apply and join us on our journey towards global connectivity!
Machinist/Programmer
As a machinist/programmer at Astranis, you will be responsible for machining and fabricating flight components for Astranis spacecraft, as well as supporting engineering with equipment and prototypes for future projects. The role will entail being able to operate CNC machines and various manual equipment, use quality inspection tools to verify hardware, and communicate with engineering teams to provide manufacturing feedback.
Role
- Read job orders and blueprints for aerospace prototype and production parts, and produce them on a variety of equipment in our machine shop.
- Set up 3- and 5-axis CNC machines, including tooling creation, tool selection, and programming.
- Run multiple machines of different types, including scheduling jobs to maximize productivity.
- Use Coordinate Measurement Machine (CMM) and hand tools to inspect parts made both internally and by external suppliers.
- Program and operate the Faro arm measurement equipment for both component inspection and satellite integration-level measurements.
- Document builds via Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to control part configuration, material certification, and traceability.
- Procure material for jobs as needed based on requests for parts.
- Write non-conformance tickets for defects created or found during the manufacturing process.
- Assist in training for new employees and other internal users of the machine shop.
Requirements
- High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
- 3+ years experience machining parts for aerospace, medical, or other high-reliability industries
- Knowledge of Solidworks, Fusion CAD/CAM, or other CAM software
- Knowledge of Haas, Matsuura and general Fanuc controllers
- Understanding of basic rigging and safety for moving objects
- Proficiency with inspection tools and experience dimensionally verifying hardware to engineering specifications
- Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
- Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry
- Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, decimals, and shop math to practical situations
- Accessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned
- Must be onsite 5 days a week
Bonus
- CMM programming experience (Mitutoyo preferred)
- Welding experience desired but not required ( TIG, UHV TIG, Ultrasonic, EBW, other bonding processes )
- Honeycomb fabrication and machining desired but not required
- General material knowledge required, exotic materials desired (7050,LiAL,TI, 3d Prints and other ASTM materials)
- Composite fabrication knowledge desired but not required
- Component cleaning, bagging and documentation knowledge desired but not required
Physical Conditions
- Remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods
- Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another
- Adjusting, moving, transporting, installing, positioning, or removing objects up to 25 pounds in all directions
- Communicating with others to exchange information
- Operating motor vehicles, heavy equipment or machinery
- Use hand tools
- Assisting in assembly test fixtures and test setups in collaboration with Astranis teams.
Environmental Conditions
- Noisy environments
- Odors or fumes from chemicals
- High-concentration, demanding and fast-paced
Safety and PPE
- Reading and interpreting hazardous warning signs
- Manipulating, cleaning and disposal of hazardous materials
- Reporting issues with equipment or unsafe conditions as well as basic lock out procedures.
- Color identification: detecting, distinguishing, recognizing and identifying colors
- Wearing proper PPE, to include face mask, face shields, gloves, safety toe shoes
Certification
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- Capable of obtaining forklift certification
Additional Requirements
- Occasionally requires overtime
- Occasionally requires working weekends
- Occasionally requires schedule flexibility
- Occasionally requires non-standard work-week hours
- Occasionally requires extended hours to support launch and flight critical project timelines
U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or Refugee/Asylee Status Required
(To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States, or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3))
Our mission and our products are meant to connect the world and everyone in it, regardless of gender, race, creed, or any other distinction. We believe in a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we encourage all people to join our team and bring their unique perspective to help make us stronger.