Senior Test Technician in San Diego, California at Firestorm

Firestorm Labs is seeking a hands-on and analytical Senior Test Technician to join our growing production team in San Diego. At Firestorm Labs, we are building the future of distributed, mission-adaptive airpower for the modern warfighter. You will be responsible for verifying that every sub-assembly and aircraft performs as designed before it reaches Flight Test and our customers. You will integrate within one of our Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) supporting the Tempest, Squall, and Hurricane FPV aircraft lines. You will run in-process and end-of-line functional tests, operate and maintain test stands, and turn test and field data into feedback that improves the build, partnering closely with Manufacturing Technicians, Quality Inspectors, and Manufacturing Engineering. The Test Technician reports to the Senior Manager of Production Operations. What You'll Do

• Perform in-process and final functional testing of sub-assemblies and aircraft per test procedures, routers, and work orders.
• Conduct engine break-in and run testing on test stands for carbureted and EFI engines, recording performance data against acceptance criteria.
• Perform electrical and avionics checks, including harness continuity and hipot testing, power-up checks, flight controller configuration, firmware loading, and RF link verification.
• Set up, calibrate, operate, and maintain test stands, fixtures, and test equipment, keeping calibration records current.
• Record test results accurately in routers and test records with full serial traceability.
• Hand off tested assemblies to Inspection or Flight Test using the standard handoff log, noting any open items.
• Troubleshoot failures to the component or assembly level and document findings clearly.
• Analyze defects returned from Flight Test and feed findings to Quality to support root cause and corrective action.
• Identify and tag nonconforming units, and support NCMR entry in Jira.
• Partner with Manufacturing Engineering to develop and improve test procedures, fixtures, and test stand designs.
• Perform other duties as directed

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED or equivalent education
• 'U.S. Person' as defined by 22 CFR § 120.62 required due to ITAR regulations, which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), or protected individuals under asylee or refugee status
• 5+ years of hands-on test, troubleshooting, or technician experience in aerospace, defense, UAS, automotive, or electronics.
• Experience with test equipment: multimeters, power supplies, and basic electrical and mechanical test equipment.
• Experience reading schematics, wiring diagrams, drawings, and test procedures.
• Troubleshooting skills and disciplined data recording.
• Experience communicating test results clearly to Manufacturing and Quality.

Preferred Qualifications

• Technical certificate or associate degree in electronics, avionics, or mechanical technology
• Experience with small engines (carbureted or EFI), engine test stands, or engine break-in.
• Experience with UAS or FPV systems, including flight controllers, ESCs, motors, radios, and configuration software such as Betaflight, ArduPilot, or PX4.
• Experience with automated cable testers (such as Cirris) or oscilloscopes.
• IPC/WHMA-A-620 or IPC J-STD-001 certification.
• CAD skills for quick-turn fixtures and test tooling.
• Experience in an AS9100-compliant environment and with Jira or an ERP/MES system.

Work Environment

• The position is working onsite at Headquarters in San Diego, CA.
• Will be working on the production floor and at test stands
• Standing and fine-motor work for extended periods; ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
• Exposure to running engines, fuel, noise, rotating propellers, and batteries; hearing and eye protection required.
• Occasional work outdoors or at flight test sites, and occasional overtime to support customer commitments.

Compensation

• Hourly Base: $32.00 -$42.00 an hour base, commensurate with experience
• Equity: Meaningful equity grant in a growth-stage defense technology company

The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve. Who We Are At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost. Benefits & Perks Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Equity grants for new hires
• Unlimited PTO
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in July, & December.
• Generous Parental Leave
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• FSA
• DCFSA
• HSA
• Hospital Indemnity insurance
• Critical Illness insurance
• Accident insurance
• Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
• Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce. Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.