Test Technician V

At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth. Our team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.

About the Role

The Test Technician V is responsible for performing routine, advanced, and novel tests on spacecraft components, mechanisms, circuits, and systems. This expert role requires extensive expertise in interpreting test procedure requirements, configuring test setups based on drawings or schematics, performing basic to advanced tests, and reporting detailed test results as defined within test documentation. The Test Technician V serves as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) or Lead for a Work Center and provides input to Test Engineers for test configurations and procedures. The role involves providing feedback to programs and Test Engineers on test capabilities, requirements, and inefficiencies based on prior experience, as well as training and mentoring other team members.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine, advanced, and novel tests on spacecraft components, mechanisms, circuits, and systems while acting as a key liaison between Technician work and Engineering work, ensuring effective communication.
• Set up simple to complex test configurations using hand tools, fixturing, test instrumentation, and software.
• Assist Test Engineers with the development of test procedures and work instructions.
• Document test results accurately and comprehensively, verifying them based on work instruction criteria.
• Perform test configuration repairs and/or component removal or replacement as needed.
• Conduct advanced equipment setup and maintenance activities.
• Use precision measurement tools to ensure components meet specified requirements.
• Perform predefined tests with consistent accuracy to ensure product quality and reliability.
• Adhere to general production floor practices, including safety, cleanliness, FOD, ESD, and test process protocols.
• Identify and report any anomalies or deviations from expected results to engineering.
• Assist with test failure investigations and troubleshooting.
• Demonstrate correct handling and storage requirements for all hardware.
• Serve as a team lead or Subject Matter Expert (SME) within a Work Center.
• Provide input to Test Engineers for test configurations and procedures.
• Collaborate with team members and programs to improve testing processes and configurations.
• Work closely with Test Engineering to develop procedure updates and test equipment improvements based on lessons learned.
• Validate test equipment and test configurations, and review test setups and test data logs.
• Assist with the design and development of Special Test Equipment (STE) and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) for testing.

Requirements

• Typically 12+ years of related experience.
• Experienced understanding of general best floor practices including safety and handling of Flight hardware.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship required).
• Expert proficiency using basic test equipment, hand tools, electrical harnessing, and mechanical fixturing.
• Able to set up and validate special test equipment and perform advanced test functions.
• Ability to follow test procedure instructions and advise Test Engineering on improvements or deficiencies.
• Understanding of 5S, FOD, and ESD awareness.
• Understanding of correct storage and handling requirements for all hardware.
• Ability to lead and successfully perform advanced test setup and test execution tasks.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to record and verify test results accurately.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to identify and report anomalies.
• Ability to train or mentor other test technicians.
• SME and/or Lead Technician experience.
• Ability to provide input to Test Engineers for test configurations and test procedures.
• Ability to advise Test Engineering and programs on capability requirements for test execution.
• Capable of executing all tests within a Work Center.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in a manufacturing or testing environment.
• Advanced understanding of electrical circuits and mechanical assemblies.
• Ability to interpret complex technical drawings, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Experience with automated test equipment (ATE) and test software.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting and diagnosing issues with electronics, mechanical components, and software.
• Familiarity with data acquisition systems and instrumentation.
• Experience with environmental testing, such as thermal, thermal vacuum, vibration, and shock testing.
• Knowledge of calibration procedures and standards for test equipment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication skills and a willingness to learn and adapt.
• Extensive experience with all tests within a Work Center.
• Previous experience as a team lead.

Pay

Pay Range: $37.90 - $52.11 per hour. Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, experience, internal equity, and market competitiveness.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%.
• Life insurance.
• 3 weeks paid time off.