Fluids Development Test Technician- Test Site (I,II,III or Senior)

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on assembly, integration, and configuration of fluid system test articles, test rigs, and ground support equipment for propulsion and fluids test campaigns.
• Execute fluid system test operations including propellant loading, pressurization, leak checks, proof tests, and functional/performance tests under the direction of test engineers.
• Fabricate, modify, and repair fluid system hardware using precision hand tools, power tools, and tube bending equipment. Work with various fittings including NPT, AN, MS, Swagelok, VCR, and medium-pressure cone fittings.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot fluid GSE including fill/drain equipment, pressure regulators, purge systems, cryogenic systems, and test instrumentation.
• Support propellant handling and hazardous fluid operations in strict accordance with site safety procedures and range safety requirements.
• Perform hardware inspections and documentation, flagging non-conformances and ensuring all materials meet cleanliness standards including clean-for-oxygen-service requirements.
• Maintain tooling, GSE, and consumables readiness including inventory tracking and calibration management.
• Support anomaly investigations through hands-on observations, hardware teardown, and documentation of as-found conditions.
• Travel regularly between Long Beach headquarters and test sites to support test campaigns and maintain test site readiness.

Qualifications

• BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
• - Technical degree, certification, vocational training, or equivalent hands-on experience (5+ years) in fluid systems, propulsion systems, pipefitting, or mechanical trades.
• - Extensive hands-on experience with fluid system assembly, high-pressure testing, leak testing, and pressure proof operations.
• - Demonstrated expertise working with hazardous fluid systems including cryogenics, hypergolics, and high-pressure systems (>3,000 psi).
• - Proficiency reading and working from engineering drawings, P&IDs, and work instructions.
• - Strong mechanical aptitude with experience using hand tools, power tools, tube benders, and precision measurement tools.
• - Understanding of safety compliance and OSHA requirements for fluid and pressure system operations.
• - Willingness to travel/support between sites including test sites to achieve company milestones.
• - Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, work in confined spaces, and perform extended standing, bending, and reaching tasks.
• - U.S. Citizenship required due to government contracts.

• PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• - 8+ years of aerospace or defense test operations experience with propulsion or high-performance fluid systems.
• - Direct experience with propellant loading operations including fueling, defueling, and purge procedures.
• - Experience with structural test operations including proof testing and hydraulic systems.
• - Background in data acquisition systems and test instrumentation setup.
• - Welding certifications (TIG, orbital welding) for stainless steel, Inconel, or titanium.
• - Experience with vacuum systems and clean-for-oxygen-service environments.
• - Prior experience at development or propulsion test facilities.
• - Leadership experience mentoring junior technicians or leading work teams.
• - Active DoD clearance or ability to obtain one.
• - Heavy equipment certifications (forklift, boom lift, crane/rigging).

Compensation and Benefits

• COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
• Base Salary:
• - Technician Level 1: $32-41/hr
• - Technician Level 2: $40-55/hr
• - Technician Level 3: $45-60/hr
• - Senior Technician: $55-70/hr
• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

Additional Requirements

• Work Location—Successful candidates will be located near Long Beach, CA
• Physical Demands—the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.