Xona Space Systems is a commercial space company building Pulsar, a Low Earth Orbit positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) constellation that delivers centimeter-level positioning with enhanced signal power and anti-jamming capabilities.
Xona is the navigational intelligence company bringing real-time, centimeter-level certainty to any device, anywhere on Earth. With Pulsar – the world’s most advanced PNT satellite infrastructure in Low Earth Orbit – Xona will offer a future-proof, backwards-compatible global positioning system optimized for absolute precision, superior power, and robust protection. As an Manufacturing Engineer Technician focused on wire harnessing, you will be the hands-on bridge between engineering design and flight-ready hardware. You will be directly responsible for building, integrating, and testing the complex electrical arteries of our spacecraft and payload systems. We operate in a dynamic, prototype-to-production environment where you will not just follow instructions, but actively work to improve them. We want individuals with a deep sense of ownership who are relentless about quality and thrive in manufacturing environments. What You Will Do - First-Article Harnessing: Build, route, and test prototype and first-article wire harnesses, documenting the best methods for mass production. - Process Development: Work with manufacturing engineers to draft, redline, and finalize work instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the factory floor. - Production Setup: Assist in the physical layout and organization of our newly renovated production rooms and R&D labs, helping to establish efficient feeder cells and the main satellite pulse line. - System Integration: Cleanly integrate harnesses and avionics onto the spacecraft, directly interfacing with GNC and mechanical systems. - Digital Tracking: Utilize our MES to log build progress, track material flow, and report defects, providing feedback to the engineering team on how to make the workflow smoother. - Tooling & Equipment: Help design, assemble, and maintain custom manufacturing jigs, fixtures, and harnessing boards. - Quality & Verification: Perform electrical continuity testing and quality checks, ensuring all hardware meets strict aerospace-grade standards before moving down the line. What We Are Looking For - High school diploma or equivalency certificate. - 1 to 3 years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing technician, harnessing, or prototype assembly role within aerospace, eVTOL, advanced automotive, or robotics. - Strong practical knowledge of wire harnessing (cutting, stripping, crimping, soldering) and the associated mechanical/electronic hand tools. - Proven ability to read and interpret technical schematics, wiring diagrams, and mechanical blueprints. - A process oriented mindset with a track record of identifying inefficiencies and suggesting practical improvements on the shop floor. - Willingness to work onsite full-time in Burlingame, CA. Bonus Points - Experience transitioning hardware from an R&D lab environment into a structured production line. - Hands-on experience working inside cleanrooms and managing Foreign Object Debris (FOD). - Familiarity with 5S principles and lean manufacturing concepts. For U.S. Roles: To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States (i.e. Green Card holder), or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). For U.K. Roles: To comply with U.K. regulations, this role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks, and successful candidates must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC). For Canada Roles: Successful candidates must obtain and hold a security clearance at the reliability status level, and pass security assessment for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and ITAR. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.