The posting
A New Paradigm For Space Operations.
Who We Are:
Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.
This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.
What You’ll Do:
The Tool & Die Maker will play a hands-on role in the fabrication, assembly, and refinement of precision mechanical components, tooling, and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) for Space Kinetic's core technology. This position will work closely with mechanical engineers and technicians to turn engineering designs and CAD models into high-quality physical hardware.
The ideal candidate has strong machining and fabrication skills, experience building precision tooling, and the ability to manufacture custom GSE, fixtures, and test equipment. This role will support prototype development, hardware integration, testing, and production maturation.
Job Responsibilities:
- Independently design, fabricate, modify, and maintain precision tools, dies, molds, fixtures, and mechanical components.
- Manufacture custom Ground Support Equipment (GSE), including handling equipment, assembly fixtures, support structures, test stands, and specialized integration equipment.
- Operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, manual mills, lathes, grinders, and other precision machining equipment.
- Interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T specifications, and 3D CAD models to manufacture components within tight tolerances.
- Select appropriate machining processes, cutting tools, work-holding methods, and materials for individual projects.
- Machine aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, and other engineering materials.
- Perform precision fitting, alignment, finishing, and assembly of tooling, GSE, and mechanical hardware.
- Inspect machined components using micrometers, calipers, indicators, and CMMs.
- Identify and resolve machining, fabrication, dimensional, and mechanical assembly challenges.
- Collaborate with engineers to improve designs for manufacturability and optimize machining processes.
- Support rapid prototyping, hardware builds, integration, and testing.
- Document manufacturing processes and maintain shop equipment, tooling, and organization.
What It Takes:
- 5+ years of experience in tool and die making, precision machining, CNC machining, or a related manufacturing discipline.
- Advanced proficiency operating CNC mills and/or CNC lathes, with additional manual machining experience.
- Demonstrated ability to independently manufacture complex mechanical components from engineering drawings and CAD models.
- Experience machining tight-tolerance aerospace or precision components.
- Strong understanding of GD&T, dimensional tolerances, machining specifications, and precision inspection.
- Experience machining aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, and other engineering materials.
- Proficiency with precision measurement and inspection equipment, including micrometers, calipers, indicators, and CMMs.
- Experience designing and fabricating custom tooling, fixtures, dies, and mechanical assemblies.
- Strong understanding of machining processes, cutting tools, feeds and speeds, work holding, and material properties.
- Ability to independently own manufacturing projects and drive technical challenges through completion.
- Strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and hands-on problem-solving skills.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.
What We'd Love:
- Experience manufacturing GSE, test stands, assembly fixtures, and mechanical support equipment.
- Familiarity with CAD/CAM software such as SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or Mastercam.
- Experience with multi-axis CNC machining and complex precision components.
- Experience building custom fixtures, jigs, molds, and dies.
- Familiarity with welding, fabrication, and structural assembly.
- Experience with precision mechanical assemblies and tight-tolerance interfaces.
- Experience supporting aerospace, defense, or other high-performance hardware development.
- A highly skilled machinist who can turn engineering concepts into functional hardware.
- Someone comfortable moving between precision machining, fabrication, mechanical assembly, and GSE development.
- A resourceful problem solver who can independently tackle manufacturing challenges.
- Someone who thrives in a fast-paced prototype environment where designs evolve.
- A collaborative team member who takes pride in precision workmanship and high-quality results.
Physical & Work Environment:
- Ability to stand for extended periods
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs unassisted
- Frequent bending, reaching, and machine interaction
- Overtime or weekend work may be required based on production needs
Our vision is unique, and so is the team we’re building. So, if your background doesn’t fully meet these qualifications, we still want your application.
Where You’ll Be:
- The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA.
What We Offer:
- Equity-Based Compensation
- 401(k) retirement plan with a 3.5% company match
- Highly Competitive PTO
- Paid company holidays + winter break
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Unique Performance-based bonus opportunities
ITAR Requirements: To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here
Equal Employment Opportunity: Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.
The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.
Pay Range
$30—$50 USD
