Manufacturing Engineer Technician

About the role

Xona is a company dedicated to developing advanced navigation technologies, leveraging its Pulsar satellite infrastructure to provide precise positioning globally. This role is crucial for the manufacturing of wire harnesses, which are essential components connecting various systems on spacecraft and payloads.

Responsibilities

• First-Article Harnessing: Build, route, and test prototype and first-article wire harnesses, documenting best practices for mass production.
• Process Development: Work with manufacturing engineers to develop, redline, and finalize work instructions and SOPs for the factory floor.
• Production Setup: Assist in setting up the production rooms and R&D labs, organizing the workspace to optimize feeder cells and the main satellite pulse line.
• System Integration: Integrate harnesses and avionics onto spacecraft, interfacing with guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) and mechanical systems.
• Digital Tracking: Utilize the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) to log build progress, track material flow, and report defects, providing feedback to the engineering team.
• Tooling & Equipment: Design, assemble, and maintain custom manufacturing jigs, fixtures, and harnessing boards.
• Quality & Verification: Perform electrical continuity testing and quality checks, ensuring all hardware meets strict aerospace-grade standards.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• 1 to 3 years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing technician, harnessing, or prototype assembly role within aerospace, eVTOL, advanced automotive, or robotics.
• Strong practical knowledge of wire harnessing, including cutting, stripping, crimping, and soldering, along with the use of mechanical and electronic hand tools.
• Proven ability to read and interpret technical schematics, wiring diagrams, and mechanical blueprints.
• A process-oriented mindset with a history of identifying inefficiencies and suggesting practical improvements on the shop floor.
• Willingness to work full-time onsite in Burlingame, CA.

Bonus Points

• Experience transitioning hardware from R&D to production.
• Hands-on experience working in cleanrooms and managing FOD.
• Familiarity with 5S principles and lean manufacturing concepts.

Qualifications

• To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or other protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
• For U.K. roles, successful candidates must undergo Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks and be eligible for UK Security Clearance (SC).
• For Canada roles, candidates must obtain and hold a security clearance at the reliability status level, pass security assessments for the CGP and ITAR, and be eligible for a Controlled Goods Program (CGP) license.

Skills

• Wire harnessing skills (cutting, stripping, crimping, soldering).
• Technical reading and interpretation.
• Process development and improvement.
• Quality assurance and verification.
• Manufacturing setup and integration.

Benefits

• Dynamic and innovative work environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Competitive compensation package.
• Flexible work schedule.
• Health and wellness programs.

Pay

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Schedule

The position offers a flexible schedule to accommodate the needs of the employee and the company.

Company Culture

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an environment that supports equal opportunity for all.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against applicants based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.