What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manufacturing Shop Technician position at AD ASTRA ROCKET COMPANY?
About Ad Astra
Ad Astra Rocket Company (Ad Astra) is an innovative US R&D company dedicated to the development of advanced plasma rocket technology for in-space transportation. The company headquarters and main laboratory are located in the city of Webster, TX, about 25 miles south of downtown Houston. Ad Astra also owns and operates a small subsidiary, located in northwestern Costa Rica and primarily focused on developing and implementing clean energy solutions based on green hydrogen for both stationary and mobile applications.
Job Overview
The Laboratory and Shop Technician will support Ad Astra’s manufacturing and test facilities at its Webster, TX, location. Work will be performed in laboratory, manufacturing and integration/assembly environments, setting up test fixtures, organizing supplies and maintaining equipment and other associated tasks as requested by Ad Astra’s Manufacturing Director. The Laboratory Technician will have numerous responsibilities supporting Ad Astra manufacturing and R & D activities.
Responsibilities
The position seeks to ensure laboratory and shop best practices are adhered to in maintaining a high level of organization and cleanliness in the facility. The company is transitioning to manufacturing and test of space flight hardware and will be required to become duly certified. Typical Laboratory and Shop Technician responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Support the assembly, inspection, and testing of laboratory prototypes and flight hardware components, subsystems, and ground support equipment.
- Assist manufacturing personnel with prototype fabrication, modification, and rework of mechanical components.
- Perform hands-on mechanical tasks including fitting, fastening, torquing, deburring, cleaning, and sealing of flight and test hardware.
- Maintain and operate laboratory and shop equipment (e.g., mills, lathes, drill presses, hand tools, pressure systems, vacuum systems, forklifts, and cranes).
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory and shop environment in compliance with safety standards.
- Manage tools, consumables, and materials inventory, restock and track usage as needed.
- Perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment and tooling.
- Follow established procedures for hazardous materials handling (e.g., fuels, oxidizers, solvents), cryogenics, and high-pressure systems.
Requirements
The position requires initiative, organization, attention to detail, motivation, and ability to address a diverse set of tasks with diligence, efficiency and enthusiasm. Collaboration and teamwork are essential attributes in a small research team environment with a collective approach to problem-solving. In addition, the following are essential qualifications required for this position.
- Candidates must be US Citizens or Permanent Residents.
- Minimum of a High School Diploma or GED.
- Experience functioning in Agile and DevOps environment.
- Possess basic computer operating skills.
- Excellent written and verbal English communication skills.
- Knowledge of safety standards and best practices in electrical assembly.
Additional Skills Desired
- Basic PVC fabrication & assembly
- Basic forklift operation proficiency
- Familiarity with high voltage and power equipment, high pressure gas storage, electromagnets, cryogenics, vacuum systems, IT and avionics systems.
- Knowledge on metric and english tooling, nut and bolt thread standards for taps and dies.
- Familiarity with the Assembly, Integration, and Testing of prototype and spaceflight Hardware.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. (i.e., instruments, books, equipment, small devices, and supplies).
- Ability to stand or be seated for long periods of time.
- Stooping, reaching, climbing, working on a ladder and bending may be periodically required.
- Ability to safely work in a confined environment
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Ability to Commute:
- Webster, TX 77598 (Required)
Work Location: In person