Production Specialist (NASA LTVS Contingent)

Hawthorne

Production Specialist (NASA LTVS Contingent) ============================================ **Department:**Production \& Test **Employment Type:**Full Time **Location:**Hawthorne, California **Compensation:**$120,000 - $120,000 / year ### Description 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. The **Production Specialist** is responsible for team alignment during hands-on assembly, integration, testing, and troubleshooting of program hardware and subsystems in a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment. This role supports the build and delivery of flight-quality and prototype rover systems used for lunar surface exploration missions. The ideal candidate combines strong aerospace production experience with exceptional attention to detail, process discipline, and a passion for space exploration. ### What you'll do: **Assembly \& Integration** * Lead technical mentorship of mechanical and electromechanical assembly of rover structures, mobility systems, mechanisms, harnessing, and subsystem hardware. * Implement technical training to ensure precision assembly of flight and development hardware using engineering drawings, work instructions, and torque specifications. * Support final integration, subsystem mating, and vehicle closeout activities. **Production Execution** * Ensure production operates in accordance with controlled manufacturing documentation, quality standards, and mission requirements. * Support production schedules and meet daily/weekly build targets. * Identify production blockers and work cross-functionally to resolve issues quickly. * Participate in pre-ship reviews, readiness reviews, and production standups. **Testing \& Troubleshooting** * Perform functional checks, fit checks, and basic environmental test setup support. * Troubleshoot assembly discrepancies, hardware nonconformances, and integration issues. * Support rover mobility tests, system validation, and environmental test campaigns. * Support and drive R\&D initiatives. **Quality \& Documentation** * Complete build records, travelers, redlines, and as-built documentation accurately. * Ensure compliance with aerospace workmanship standards (NASA, IPC, AS9100). * Support MRB disposition activities and corrective actions. * Maintain strict configuration control of hardware and tooling. **Continuous Improvement** * Recommend improvements to assembly flow, tooling, fixtures, and work instructions. * Design and release GSE and shop aids. * Support lean manufacturing initiatives and 6S efforts. * Assist with development of standardized tooling and workstation optimization. ### What you'll bring: * Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent military/trade experience. * 3 years of experience in aerospace, defense, automotive, robotics, or high-reliability manufacturing. * Experience with precision mechanical assembly and integration. * Ability to read and interpret: * engineering drawings * GD\&T * assembly procedures * wiring diagrams * Experience using torque tools, calibrated hand tools, and measurement equipment. * Familiarity with ESD and contamination control requirements. * Strong troubleshooting and root-cause problem-solving skills. * Ability to work in cleanroom or controlled environments. **Preferred Qualifications** * Experience building spacecraft, rovers, satellites, launch vehicles, or robotics systems. * Familiarity with NASA workmanship standards and human-rated hardware requirements. * Experience supporting: * environmental testing * vibration testing * thermal vacuum (TVAC) * functional testing * Knowledge of composite structures and lightweight aerospace materials. * Experience with ERP/MES systems and digital work instructions. * IPC J-STD / NASA soldering certification (preferred). **Key Competencies** * Attention to detail * Ownership mentality * Mission focus * Adaptability in rapid-development environments * Team collaboration * Safety-first mindset * High accountability ### 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 * Home office set up reimbursement * Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site * Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks