Manufacturing Technician (contractor)

Firestorm Labs is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Manufacturing 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. The Manufacturing Technician is a hands-on role responsible for building aircraft sub-assemblies and final assemblies right the first time, on schedule, and to Firestorm's quality standards.

This role sits within one of our Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) supporting the Tempest, Squall, and Hurricane FPV aircraft lines. You will build to released work orders and routers, work side by side with Test Technicians and Quality Inspectors, and help improve assembly methods and work instructions as we scale production.

What You'll Do

• Build aircraft sub-assemblies (such as front landing gear, centerwing, and empennage) and final assemblies to released work orders, routers, drawings, and work instructions.
• Receive kitted material from the Warehouse, verify part numbers and quantities against the work order, and flag shortages or discrepancies before starting the build.
• Perform mechanical assembly, fastening, bonding, wire routing, connector termination, and soldering to workmanship standards.
• Complete router sign-offs and build records accurately and in real time, including serial and lot traceability.
• Hand off completed assemblies to Inspection and Test using the standard handoff log, including part number, quantity, MOT, and open items.
• Identify, tag, and segregate nonconforming material, and support NCMR entry and disposition in Jira.
• Support first article builds and new product introduction by redlining work instructions and recommending assembly method improvements.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area following 5S, FOD prevention, and ESD control practices.
• Perform rework and repair per approved dispositions and engineering direction.
• Cross-train across sub-assembly stations within and between IPTs as production needs shift.
• 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
• 2+ years of hands-on assembly experience in aerospace, defense, UAS, electronics, or precision manufacturing.
• Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings, BOMs, and work instructions.
• Experience with hand and power tools, torque tools, and basic measuring instruments such as calipers and gauges.

Preferred Qualifications

• IPC J-STD-001 and/or IPC/WHMA-A-620 certification.
• Experience with composite structures, RC or FPV aircraft, small engines (carbureted or EFI), or electromechanical systems.
• Experience working in an AS9100-compliant environment.
• Familiarity with ERP or MES systems (such as Unanet) and Jira.
• Startup, NPI, or low-rate initial production experience.
• Strong attention to detail and disciplined documentation habits.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, changing production environment.

Work Environment

• The position is working onsite at Headquarters in San Diego, CA.
• Will be working primarily on the production floor
• Standing, bending, and close visual work, including under magnification, for extended periods; ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
• Use of required PPE, including safety glasses and ESD protection.
• Occasional overtime to support customer commitments.

Compensation

• Hourly Base: $30.00 -$40.00 an hour base, commensurate with experience

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.

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.