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Spacecraft Avionics Technician Seen this week

Apex Spacecraft · Los Angeles · Electronics · first seen 2026-07-16
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About the Role

Apex manufactures satellite buses at scale using vertically integrated hardware and software. These spacecraft platforms carry customer payloads to orbit as commercial launch costs decrease. You will join our team to assemble, integrate, and test spacecraft avionics systems that enable Earth observation, communications, and more.

Responsibilities

  • Perform advanced avionics PCBA assembly, rework, and testing for satellite and spacecraft development, following IPC standards and safety protocols.
  • Execute expert-level troubleshooting, diagnosis, and component-level failure analysis of avionics PCBAs.
  • Perform precision soldering, desoldering, and rework of SMT and through-hole components, BGA/CSP, micro-miniature devices per IPC J-STD-001 Space Addendum and IPC-7711/7721.
  • Conduct advanced PCBA repairs including trace repair, pad reconstruction, via repair, and wire bonding modifications.
  • Utilize oscilloscopes, multimeters, and specialized avionics test equipment to identify electrical anomalies.
  • Integrate avionics PCBAs into spacecraft systems such as flight computers and power distribution units, ensuring proper installation, thermal management, and electromagnetic compatibility.
  • Perform board-level functional testing including power sequencing, communication protocol testing (MIL-STD-1553, SpaceWire, CAN bus), and subsystem characterization.
  • Execute harness integration and rework including connector installation, wire repair, splice repair, and shield termination per IPC/WHMA-A-620.
  • Collaborate with avionics engineers and technicians to diagnose and resolve technical issues during assembly, integration, and testing.
  • Ensure compliance with IPC-A-610 Class 3, IPC J-STD-001 Space Applications, and NASA workmanship standards.
  • Maintain accurate records of assembly, rework, test results, and anomalies using NCR processes.
  • Participate in environmental testing support for thermal vacuum, vibration, and shock testing.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement recommendations while maintaining quality standards.

Requirements

  • U.S. Person status required to access export-controlled data.
  • Minimum 7 years of experience in aerospace avionics PCBA assembly, rework, and troubleshooting with satellite or spacecraft flight hardware.
  • Expert-level proficiency in advanced PCBA rework including SMT removal/replacement, BGA/CSP rework, fine-pitch soldering, and micro-miniature assembly per IPC J-STD-001 Space Addendum and IPC-7711/7721.
  • Demonstrated expertise in PCBA repair operations including trace repair, pad lifting repair, via repair, and solder mask repair.
  • Certification or demonstrated proficiency in IPC J-STD-001 (Space Applications) and IPC-A-610 Class 3 (certifications strongly preferred).
  • Advanced troubleshooting skills with proven experience diagnosing complex PCBA failures using systematic fault isolation and advanced test equipment.
  • Working knowledge of harness integration including crimping per AS13002, connector assembly, and cable routing per IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3.
  • Experience with ESD controls per ANSI/ESD S20.20 and cleanroom protocols for flight hardware.
  • Proficiency with precision rework equipment including hot air rework stations, BGA rework systems, temperature-controlled soldering stations, preheaters, and stereoscopic microscopes.
  • Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, schematics, assembly drawings, IPC standards, and technical specifications.
  • Excellent attention to detail with strong problem-solving and analytical skills for root cause analysis.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment with avionics engineers, quality engineers, and technicians.
  • Strong commitment to safety and quality, FOD prevention, ESD protocols, and safety guidelines.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to document technical findings and procedures clearly.

Preferred Qualifications

  • IPC Specialist or Master level certifications in J-STD-001 and A-610
  • IPC-7711/7721 (Rework, Modification and Repair of Electronic Assemblies) certification
  • Experience with NASA Class 1 or 2 flight hardware PCBAs
  • Experience with military and aerospace communication protocols and avionics systems

What We Offer Full-time Employees

  • Equity in Apex to benefit from the work you create
  • 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
  • Comprehensive PTO starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
  • Competitive 401(k) plan with 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
  • 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
  • Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks
  • Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and family gatherings
  • Dream desk setup and tools for productivity
  • World-class Playa Vista office with in-person collaboration and work-life flexibility
  • Real impact opportunity working with aerospace and new space experts