Avionics Production Specialist (SMT)

About the Team:

The Avionics team is responsible for all aspects of the electrical design on the rocket, from electronics, interconnects, associated mechanical design, testing and initial production. This team's scope includes the flight computers, power systems, RF systems, PCB design, autonomous flight safety systems, and telemetry. This team works on complex electrical systems that require modularity and flexibility, and are critical to the successful launch of Terran R, and beyond!

About the Role:

• Lead hands-on execution of SMT and PCBA manufacturing operations in support of Terran R avionics development and production hardware
• Operate and support automated SMT manufacturing equipment including printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, AOI systems, and flying probe test equipment to ensure efficient and high-quality PCB assembly execution
• Program, optimize, troubleshoot, and maintain SMT line processes to support both development builds and production-rate manufacturing activities. Perform hands-on PCBA assembly, soldering, rework, and inspection activities, including removal and replacement of through-hole and surface mount electronic components on high-reliability flight hardware
• Interpret engineering drawings, assembly documentation, BOMs, and manufacturing work instructions to support accurate and repeatable builds
• Serve as a technical resource on the production floor, supporting line readiness, troubleshooting manufacturing issues, improving workflows, and maintaining build quality standards
•  Collaborate closely with manufacturing engineering, design engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve assembly challenges and support rapid iteration cycles
• Support rapid development schedules while maintaining high workmanship standards, configuration control, and detailed manufacturing documentation.

About You:

• 5+ years of experience in SMT manufacturing, electronics assembly, or high-reliability PCBA production environments
• Hands-on experience operating SMT production equipment, including pick-and-place machines, printers, AOI systems, reflow ovens, and flying probe testing equipment
• Experience programming and supporting pick-and-place operations for prototype and production PCB assemblies
• Strong hands-on soldering and PCBA rework experience, including removal and replacement of both surface mount and through-hole components
• Strong understanding of PCB assembly processes, component handling, ESD controls, and high-reliability manufacturing workmanship standards
• Ability to read and interpret assembly drawings, schematics, manufacturing documentation, and process instructions
• Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to identify assembly defects, process issues, and manufacturing challenges within fast-paced production environments
• Excellent communication skills and attention to detail, capable of supporting cross-functional teams and documenting manufacturing issues clearly. PC-A-610, J-STD-001, or IPC-7711/7721 certification (current or expired)

Nice to haves but not required:  

• Experience supporting aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability electronics manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with MES/ERP systems and digital manufacturing workflows
• Experience supporting both NPI builds and production-rate avionics manufacturing
• Background with selective soldering, conformal coating, or X-ray inspection processes