Hardware Technician - Test Automation

Worker Type Regular Job Description Summary AV is seeking an experienced test automation technician for multiple programs within the Space Technologies division. The Space Technologies division falls under the SpDE sector. The Space Technologies division has been developing the techniques, systems, subsystems, and design elements required to implement high reliability opto-mechanical 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 opto-mechanical 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. Position Responsibilities Construct new test systems using engineering drawings, program documentation, and test engineering input. Identify and procure equipment and system hardware. 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. Work with engineers to develop new testing methodologies and drive continuous improvement. Create and maintain engineering documentation including drawings, cable diagrams, BOMs, and configuration records. Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & 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. Experience in building and validating complex test systems. Knowledge of ESD protocols and laboratory safety procedures. Must be a U.S. Citizen. Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies Active or previous certification in IPC-610, IPC-620, or IPC J-STD. Experience handling and testing space hardware. Knowledge of clean room practices and procedures. Experience working under ISO or AS9100 or similar quality management systems. Proficiency with 3D CAD software and engineering PDM systems. Familiarity with GitLab or other software development platforms. Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interests Physical Demands Ability to work in a manufacturing environment Ability to frequently use hand tools (e.g. clamps) using light, minimal force Regularly required to sit for long periods and occasionally stand for short periods Frequently lift and/or carry objects of small size between 2lbs and 5lbs Frequently required to use hand to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and balance Occasionally required to walk Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus Clearance Level No Clearance The salary range for this role is: $25 - $38 AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements. Benefits : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: . We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please. About AV: AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best. 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 are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR U.S. Citizenship required