Production Operations Apprenticeship
Astrolab
Operations
hawthorne, ca, usa
USD 21.67-37.83 / hour
Posted on Aug 5, 2025
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 Apprentice in Engineering & Production Operations, you will support the assembly, testing, and logistics of our lunar rover systems. You’ll gain hands-on experience in mechanical, electrical, and production workflows and contribute to R&D, field testing, and general operations. This role is designed for those who are eager to learn, work hard, and gain real-world experience in a fast-paced aerospace environment.
As an Apprentice in Engineering & Production Operations, you will support the assembly, testing, and logistics of our lunar rover systems. You’ll gain hands-on experience in mechanical, electrical, and production workflows and contribute to R&D, field testing, and general operations. This role is designed for those who are eager to learn, work hard, and gain real-world experience in a fast-paced aerospace environment.
- Department
- Production & Test
- Employment Type
- Contract / Temp
- Location
- Hawthorne, California
- Workplace type
- Onsite
- Compensation
- $21.67 - $37.83 / hour
What you'll do:
- Assist with mechanical and electromechanical assembly, maintenance, and repair of rover components
- Support test set-ups including instrumentation and sensor calibration
- Organize, track, and expedite parts and tools across departments
- Help document builds, tests, and equipment activities
- Learn and use tools like torque wrenches, calipers, crimpers, oscilloscopes, thermocouples, and more
- Assist with inventory tracking and packaging/shipping of incoming/outgoing items
- Perform daily/weekly equipment and facilities checklists
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace
- Participate in field testing and off-site events as needed
- Collaborate with engineers and technicians to improve workflows and troubleshoot issues
What you'll bring:
- High school diploma or GED required, coursework or training in mechanical or technical fields a plus
- Previous experience in a mechanical or aerospace-related field is preferred but not required
- Strong interest in aerospace mechanics
- Basic knowledge of mechanical tools, systems, and aircraft components is a plus
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Willingness to travel occasionally for testing or support events
- Experience reading engineering drawings or schematics
- Familiarity with lean processes or inventory systems
- IPC/AppreJ-STD or cleanroom experience
Benefits and Perks
- Work with a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
- On-site snacks, beverages, and 2x weekly lunches
- Flexible work environment
About Astrolab
Having a strong, inclusive, and inspired team is essential to accomplishing our bold mission. Employees are our biggest asset, and we are deeply committed to them and our values. At Astrolab we…
Demonstrate and inspire trust. Interactions are direct, honest, and respectful. We are fair and transparent with what we do and why.
Thrive in balance. Balance gives us perspective and keeps us motivated and inspired. We commit to rewarding work and a fulfilling personal life.
Seek diverse perspectives. We ask questions, engage in productive debate and offer alternatives to ensure our solutions and products are robust and a reflection of our collective best.
Move with purpose. Quality and reliability are accomplished through efficient ideation and iteration. We act with a sense of urgency and deliver what we promise, always with the big picture in mind.
Make an impact. We intentionally move our community and industry into the future through our work, practices, and actions.
Our Hiring Process
Stage 1:
Application Review
Stage 2:
Recruiter Phone Interview
Stage 3:
Technical Video Interviews
Stage 4:
On-site Interview
Astrolab is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, gender identity, parental or pregnancy status, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, or veteran status. If you need assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to careers@astrolab.space. We strive to remove unconscious and unnecessary barriers to build the best team. While we’ve outlined what an ideal candidate could look like, we know that you may bring something unanticipated and essential to the team. If you’re reading this and can see yourself contributing, please register below.
