Hardware Technician - Test Automation

AV is seeking an experienced test automation technician for multiple programs within the Space Technologies division. The Space Technologies division has been developing the techniques, systems, subsystems, and design elements required to implement high reliability optomechanical and electrical systems.

In this role, you will be constructing and maintaining automated test systems for evaluation of space flight hardware. These tests systems will interface with a diverse set of electrical and optomechanical flight hardware throughout the integration and test phase of production.

The ideal candidate brings hands-on expertise in building and testing electrical systems, configuring and operating test instruments, constructing harnesses and cabling, assembling test racks, and maintaining automation infrastructure.

Essential Functions

• Construct new test systems using engineering drawings, program documentation, and test engineering input.

• Build wire and cable harness assemblies for test systems.

• Validate and test automated test systems to ensure reliability and accuracy.

• Troubleshoot and resolve system and unit integration issues.

• Train team members on test system setup and operation.

• Perform maintenance and calibration of test systems and measurement equipment.

• Create and maintain engineering documentation including drawings, cable diagrams, BOMs, and configuration records.

• Strong background in build and test of electrical systems.

• Familiarity with basic board level testing and evaluation.

• Experienced in the use of electrical test equipment including oscilloscopes, DVMs, signal analyzers, and PC-based measurement/automation platforms.

• Skilled in fabricating complex wire harnesses and cable assemblies.

• Detail-oriented with strong technical documentation skills.

• Experience working in engineering laboratory environments with rigorous FOD and ESD handling protocols.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical specifications.

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

Required Education and Experience

• Minimum 5 years of relevant industry experience.

• Hands-on experience with electrical test equipment including oscilloscopes, signal analyzers, and data acquisition systems.

• Proven ability to perform electrical testing at board, module, and system levels.

• Demonstrated experience fabricating cable and harness assemblies.

• Proficient with hand tools, soldering equipment, and lab instruments.

• Familiarity with engineering documentation tools and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Knowledge of ESD protocols and laboratory safety procedures.

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Active or previous certification in IPC-610, IPC-620, or IPC J-STD.

• Experience handling and testing space hardware.

• Knowledge of cleanroom practices and procedures.

• Experience working under AS9100 or similar quality management systems.

• Proficiency with 3D CAD software and engineering PDM systems.

• Familiarity with GitLab or other software development platforms.

We don’t just build defense technology-we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.

Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian-but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next.

If you’re ready to build technology that matters-with speed, scale, and purpose-there’s no better place to do it than AV., We don’t just build defense technology-we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.

Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian-but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next.

If you’re ready to build technology that matters-with speed, scale, and purpose-there’s no better place to do it than AV.

Careers at AeroVironment (https://www.avinc.com/careers/our-team)