Production Technician, Power Processing Unit (PPU)

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

The Opportunity 

As a Production Technician on the Astra Spacecraft Engine (ASE) team, you’ll play a critical role in building and testing our spacecraft propulsion systems. This is a hands-on position where your mechanical assembly skills—particularly around high-voltage and precision electronics like Power Processing Units (PPUs)—will directly impact the performance and reliability of flight hardware.

You’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Supply Chain, Mission Assurance, Product, and Program Management to assemble high-reliability propulsion components and complete propulsion modules.

How You'll Fulfill Your Mission

• Component Assembly: Build and integrate propulsion components, including fluid systems and PPUs, using specialized tools and techniques, ensuring accuracy and consistency
• Wiring & Harnessing: Route, terminate, and secure complex harnesses with high-voltage interfaces following strict drawings and ESD standards
• Mechanical Assembly: Align and fasten mechanical and electrical components, maintaining precision tolerances for high-performance hardware
• Quality Inspection: Perform inspections of assemblies using precision measuring tools and document compliance with engineering requirements
• Documentation: Maintain accurate build records, torque values, serial tracking, and record any deviations or non-conformances
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve issues during PPU assembly and integration; work directly with engineers to implement real-time fixes
• Cleanroom Protocols: Follow cleanroom procedures including proper gowning, ESD control, and contamination-prevention practices
• Safety Compliance: Work safely with high-voltage systems, pressure components, and other hazardous equipment
• Team Contribution: Support production goals, contribute to process improvements, and help develop work instructions for repeatability and scale

Why We Value You

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in mechanical or electro-mechanical assembly, preferably in aerospace, defense, or high-voltage environments
• Direct experience assembling and handling Power Processing Units (PPUs) or similar high-voltage power electronics
• Skilled in reading and interpreting electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and mechanical drawings
• Familiar with cleanroom environments and compliant with ESD standards (e.g., ANSI/ESD S20.20 or MIL-STD-1686)
• Strong troubleshooting ability across electrical and mechanical domains
• Proven track record contributing to manufacturing documentation, procedures, and continuous improvement
• Able to communicate effectively with engineers, supply chain, and cross-functional teams
• Willing to work overtime and weekends as needed to meet delivery timelines
• Able to lift up to 25 lbs and perform physical tasks in a production setting
• A team player who takes ownership, follows through, and leads by example

Desired Multipliers 

• Prior experience working in aerospace startups or fast-paced production environments
• Knowledge of vacuum systems, environmental testing, or flight hardware qualification standards
• Hands-on experience with soldering, crimping, and routing high-voltage wiring harnesses
• Familiarity with integration of PPUs with Hall-effect thrusters or similar propulsion systems
• Willingness to mentor others and contribute to a collaborative, learning-focused culture

The pay range for this role is: $40.00 - $55.00 per hour

The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area