Astrolab is The Lunar Operations Company. We design and build the systems and hardware the lunar economy will come to depend on — rovers, power, and data networks for sustained operations on the Moon. We are focused on the problems that must be solved before the next chapter of human exploration can scale. The Moon does not forgive untested assumptions. The people who work here know that, and they wouldn't have it any other way.

Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity’s presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.

As an R&D Fabrication Specialist, you will play a crucial role in the production and assembly of lunar rovers, ensuring precision, quality, and safety in every step of the manufacturing process.

Responsibilities

Provide mechanical fabrication, assembly, and maintenance support for R&D jobs, field testing campaigns, and flight hardware campaigns (MIG, TIG, and manual machining)
Develop work instructions and documentation for build and test processes
Handle component and assembly non-conformances and perform troubleshooting and root cause analysis
Perform equipment and facilities preventative maintenance
Champion 5S and best-in-class safety practices across all areas of the business
Use precision calibrated tools such as torque wrenches, micrometers, calipers, etc
Read and interpret technical drawings and other technical documentation
Work with other engineering team members to develop production systems, outline detailed project plans, and execute
Support on-site and off-site vehicle testing
Lead critical lift operations

Skills

Basic Qualifications

Experience in TIG and MiG Welding
Experience in fabrication skills (fit up, jigging, layout, tube bending)
Experience in manual milling, turning, and grinding (experience using indexers, rotary tables)
Experience in project planning and management from concept to delivery

Preferred Qualifications

5+ years of experience working in production, R&D, or test operation environments
Experience working with sheet metal
Experience with structural metallic fabrication, structural repair, and assembly fundamentals
Experience in electromechanical assembly and troubleshooting
Experience in Microsoft suite products (Excel, Word, Powerpoint)
Experience working autonomously and determining work priorities to optimize productivity of yourself and the organization
Experience with proficiency in CAD modeling software (e.g., NX or SolidWorks)
Experience working in a cleanroom environment

Benefits

Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
Equity ownership in the company
Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
401(k) plan with company match
Flexible PTO and parental leave
Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks