Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is simple and ambitious: redefine space—for people, systems, and missions in every domain. Umbra’s ecosystem operates through three business units: Remote Sensing (the data), Space Systems (the components), and Mission Solutions (the platforms).Together, our teams develop capabilities that deliver persistent access, resilient performance, and mission-ready solutions, advancing U.S. space leadership while keeping the world safe and informed.
About the Team
Space Systems – The Components
Space Systems is where Umbra turns hardware and software designs into on-orbit realities; developing, implementing and iterating mission-ready core technology, while simultaneously advancing the next generation of our own satellite constellation. Space Systems is vertically integrated across the satellite architecture, thus the team designs, builds, and tests an array of critical components and subsystems, including power systems, communications, control systems, deployment hardware, avionics, and payloads, as well as the flight software, firmware and digital design solutions to support the entire hardware stack. Our focus is on first principles engineering, and our mandate is simple: it has to work when it counts. Every bolt, board, and binary is proven on our own SAR constellation, ensuring flight-proven reliability where failure is not an option.
If you want to work on cutting edge space technology while maintaining the highest standard for innovation and mission ready performance, you belong here at Umbra.
About the Job
Join Umbra's Manufacturing team as a Spacecraft Aerospace Technician and play a crucial role in building the satellites we launch every year. In this position, you will be hands-on in the assembly and testing of our advanced spacecraft systems. Your expertise will not only contribute to the successful construction of satellites but also help streamline and enhance our manufacturing processes across multiple builds. If you're passionate about aerospace technology and eager to make an impact, we want to hear from you!
This position is based on-site in our Santa Barbara/Goleta, CA office.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of spacecraft hardware and components in accordance with engineering drawings, procedures, and specifications.
- Support mechanical and electrical assembly activities, including the use of hand tools, measurement equipment, fixtures, and tooling.
- Partner with engineers to develop, execute, troubleshoot, and document manufacturing and test procedures.
- Maintain accurate manufacturing documentation, including assembly procedures, test records, and build documentation.
- Support the development, fabrication, and maintenance of test fixtures, tooling, and manufacturing infrastructure.
- Identify assembly or test issues and work collaboratively with engineering to troubleshoot problems and improve manufacturing processes.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- 3+ years of hands-on experience in aerospace, manufacturing, military, automotive, or another highly technical production environment.
- Experience assembling, integrating, testing, or troubleshooting mechanical and/or electrical hardware.
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, assembly instructions, and technical documentation.
- Experience using common manufacturing tools and measurement equipment, such as torque wrenches, calipers, gauges, fixtures, and tooling.
- Basic understanding of DC electrical systems and electronics, including voltage, current, resistance, continuity, shorts, and open circuits.
- Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail, including the ability to safely handle and assemble small or delicate components.
- Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and working with electronic files and documentation.
- Ability to safely lift, move, and manipulate equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with engineers and other manufacturing team members.
- Willingness and ability to work paid overtime as needed to support production and mission schedules.
Desired Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience assembling, integrating, or testing complex mechanical and electrical systems, preferably in aerospace or spacecraft manufacturing.
- Experience soldering and performing basic electrical troubleshooting using test equipment such as digital multimeters (DMMs) and oscilloscopes.
- Experience working with delicate or flight-critical hardware, including wire harnesses, electrical assemblies, and moving mechanical assemblies.
- Experience working in a fast-paced development, prototype, or small-team manufacturing environment.
- Experience troubleshooting hardware and supporting root-cause investigation and corrective actions.
- Ability to work from broader project objectives, take ownership of assigned work, and adapt to changing priorities with limited oversight.
- Experience supporting the development or improvement of manufacturing processes, tooling, fixtures, or test equipment.
- Relevant technical, trade, or industry certifications.
Benefits
- 15 Days of PTO Accrual, Sick, Family & Medical Leave
- Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
- Vol Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, Pet Insurance (employee funded)
- 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution
- Stock Options
- Free parking
- Free lunch in office daily
Umbra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Employment Eligibility Verification
In compliance with federal laws, all hired persons will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) upon hire.
ITAR/EAR Requirements
This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.
Pay Transparency
This job posting may cover multiple career levels. To ensure greater transparency, we provide base salary ranges for all roles, regardless of location. Our standard pay ranges are based on the role’s function and level, benchmarked against similar growth-stage companies. Compensation may vary based on geographical location, as certain regions may have different cost-of-living factors. The final offer will also be influenced by the candidate's skills, responsibilities, and relevant experience.
Compensation Range
The Compensation Range for this role is $38.46/hour - $45.67/hour DOE.