Lead Fluids Technician

Overview

As our Lead Fluids Technician, you will own the fabrication, assembly, inspection, and testing of aerospace fluid systems that support flight hardware. You will lead tube shop operations and ensure all components meet strict quality, safety, and performance standards from build through test.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead daily tube shop operations for stainless steel and aluminum tubing
• Program and operate CNC tube bending equipment
• Perform orbital tube welding for flight-critical systems
• Assemble valves, manifolds, and fluid subsystems
• Conduct metrology inspection using portable CMM arms
• Execute oxygen cleaning processes to aerospace standards
• Support pressure testing and leak detection activities
• Maintain documentation, work instructions, and quality records
• Enforce safety protocols and FOD control across all operations
• Train and support technicians to ensure consistent execution

Deliverables

• Flight-ready fluid system components and assemblies
• Accurate inspection and metrology reports
• Completed weld records and fabrication documentation
• Cleanliness verification and oxygen service certification
• Test data from pressure and leak checks
• Updated SOPs and shop process documentation

Impacts and Outcomes

• Deliver reliable, high-quality fluid systems that meet flight requirements
• Ensure tube shop output supports program timelines and milestones
• Maintain strict adherence to safety, cleanliness, and quality standards
• Reduce fabrication defects and rework through strong process control
• Identify and mitigate risks across fabrication, assembly, and test
• Own end-to-end accountability for fluid system hardware readiness

Qualifications

• 3+ years of tube shop experience with stainless steel and aluminum tubing
• 3+ years of valve or fluid system assembly experience
• Hands-on orbital tube welding experience
• Experience with CNC tube bending equipment
• Experience using portable CMM arms for inspection
• Knowledge of oxygen cleaning processes and standards
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
• Strong attention to detail and documentation discipline
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Aerospace or propulsion systems experience
• Helium leak detection experience
• Familiarity with AS9100 or similar quality systems
• Prior leadership, training, or shop oversight experience

Compensation

Hourly Rate: $43.00 - $58.00 per hour (eligible for overtime)

Final compensation will be based on experience, skills, education, training, and business needs.

Benefits

• Equity program eligibility following 90 days of employment, subject to performance and executive approval
• 401(k) plan with company matching
• Professional development stipend
• Flexible paid time off and company winter breaks
• Paid leave for family, bonding, or medical needs
• Hybrid work flexibility depending on team needs
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage at minimal to no cost for employees
• Dependent coverage and HSA options available
• Company-paid life and long-term disability insurance, with optional additional coverage

Work Environment

This role operates on the manufacturing floor, in clean areas, and within test environments. Candidates should be comfortable lifting up to 50 lbs and working around pressurized systems.

Pay: $43.00 - $58.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Tube Shop : 3 years (Required)

Work Location: In person