Launch Pad Technician

©PyraLink Aerospace

**LAUNCH PAD TECHNICIAN**

PyraLink Aerospace was founded under the philosophy that Simplicity, Affordability and Flexibility are closely coupled with a goal of creating a strong society where South Africans can make Space part of their daily conversations.

**LAUNCH PAD TECHNICIAN**

We are currently looking for a motivated, energetic, and enthusiastic mechanical technician to build & maintain the launch pad mechanical and fluid systems in preparation for launch operations at the Overberg Test Range. These systems include hydraulics, high-pressure nitrogen and helium, and cryogenic systems.

**RESPONSIBILITIES**:

- Fabricate and install fluid system components from a schematic or engineering drawing including but not limited to ball valves, check valves, pressure regulators, and pressure gauges.
- Troubleshoot operational issues found during activation of fluid and mechanical systems.
- Work with a team of technicians and engineers to ensure every system is built with the highest level of quality to support 100% successful launch of a multi-million Rand launch vehicle.
- Operate heavy machinery including forklifts and aerial platforms.
- Hands-on operations with both large and small, fragile assemblies.
- Perform maintenance tasks as required in a variety of roles for vehicle integration, pad maintenance, site preventative maintenance, general facilities, and any other general maintenance work as required to maintain an operational launch site (includes corrosion control).

**BASIC QUALIFICATIONS**:

- High school Grade 12 or equivalency certificate.
- 3+ years of experience using power tools in a professional capacity.

**PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE**:

- Associate degree in aerospace technology or equivalent area of study.
- Experience working on a rocket launch pad and directly supporting launch operations.
- Military aviation experience as a propulsion or air frame technician.
- Experience using heavy equipment such as: overhead cranes, forklifts, and man lifts.
- Ability to follow detailed schematics and be able to fabricate fluid panels from said schematics.
- Extensive knowledge of hydraulic and cryogenic systems and operations.
- Ability to bend and route tube in the field to a high level of accuracy.
- Ability to explain the differences between test setups: hydraulic vs. pneumatic vs. thermal and between sensors (load cells, differential pressure transducers, thermocouples etc.).
- Experience maintaining and troubleshooting complex fluid and mechanical systems, including analyzing flow path and proper relief systems.
- Ability to safely rig and move items under 20kg.
- Ability to perform a hydrotest and pneumatic on any component with little to no direction.
- Ability to operate and build a flush cart, proof cart, and leak check cart.
- Experience working in a clean room environment.
- Ability to obtain or currently hold Top Secret security clearance.
- Familiarity with calibrated measurement devices including load cells, multimeters, calipers, torque wrenches, depth gauges, and micrometers.

**ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS**:

- Ability to pass Space Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg.
- Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, and working on ladders/lifts at elevated heights.
- Ability to lift 35 lbs. unassisted.
- Typically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments - heat, cold, rain.
- Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise.
- Work schedule varies depending on site operational needs, and flexibility is required.
- Must be willing to travel to other PyraLink Aerospace locations as necessary.
- General physical fitness is required for some work areas; flight hardware is typically built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is required.

Ability to Commute:

- Cape Town, Western Cape (required)