R&D Fabrication Technician

Astrolab is The Lunar Operations Company. We design and build the systems and hardware the lunar economy will come to depend on - rovers, power, and data networks for sustained operations on the Moon. We are focused on the problems that must be solved before the next chapter of human exploration can scale. The Moon does not forgive untested assumptions. The people who work here know that, and they wouldn't have it any other way.

Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity’s presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.

As an R&D Fabrication Specialist, you will play a crucial role in the production and assembly of lunar rovers, ensuring precision, quality, and safety in every step of the manufacturing process.

What you'll do

• Provide mechanical fabrication, assembly, and maintenance support for R&D jobs, field testing campaigns, and flight hardware campaigns (MIG, TIG, and manual machining)
• Develop work instructions and documentation for build and test processes
• Handle component and assembly non-conformances and perform troubleshooting and root cause analysis
• Perform equipment and facilities preventative maintenance
• Champion 5S and best-in-class safety practices across all areas of the business
• Use precision calibrated tools such as torque wrenches, micrometers, calipers, etc
• Read and interpret technical drawings and other technical documentation
• Work with other engineering team members to develop production systems, outline detailed project plans, and execute
• Support on-site and off-site vehicle testing
• Lead critical lift operations

What you'll bring

Basic Qualifications

• Experience in TIG and MiG Welding
• Experience in fabrication skills (fit up, jigging, layout, tube bending)
• Experience in manual milling, turning, and grinding (experience using indexers, rotary tables)
• Experience in project planning and management from concept to delivery

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience working in production, R&D, or test operation environments
• Experience working with sheet metal
• Experience with structural metallic fabrication, structural repair, and assembly fundamentals
• Experience in electromechanical assembly and troubleshooting
• Experience in Microsoft suite products (Excel, Word, Powerpoint)
• Experience working autonomously and determining work priorities to optimize productivity of yourself and the organization
• Experience with proficiency in CAD modeling software (e.g., NX or SolidWorks)
• Experience working in a cleanroom environment

Benefits and Perks

• Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
• Equity ownership in the company
• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Flexible PTO and parental leave
• Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
• Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks