Assembly Technician

2nd Shift Assembler This role focuses on high-volume mechanical and electronic assembly work on 2nd shift in a military and defense production environment in Santa Ana, CA, with the potential opportunity to relocate to an Ohio facility at the end of the year. You will perform repetitive mechanical assemblies, build and test electronic components and systems, and support a fast-paced production line that aims to produce 5,000 units per month. Responsibilities Perform repetitive mechanical assemblies in a high-paced production environment, consistently meeting production targets of up to 5,000 units per month. Assemble high-quality wire harnesses, test racks, junction boxes, and associated components using hand soldering and component fabrication techniques. Read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematics, and assembly instructions to complete mechanical and electronic assemblies accurately. Use common hand tools and power tools such as pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, depth micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, pressure gauges, multimeters, and specialized test equipment to complete assemblies and inspections. Perform inspection and quality checks on mechanical and electronic assemblies to ensure they meet required specifications and standards. Conduct validation and testing of electronic components using equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, network analyzers, and test racks. Support electronic box assembly by troubleshooting issues and documenting detailed issue tickets for any failures encountered. Run functional checkouts and tests on assembled systems, diagnose issues discovered during testing, and implement corrective actions where appropriate. Assist with testing and running RF systems as part of broader electronic system validation. Apply common air-frame construction techniques, including the use of rivets, mechanical fasteners, nut plates, and similar hardware in assemblies. Perform PCBA-related work and troubleshooting on printed circuit board assemblies as required. Use computer applications, including standard browsers and word processing tools, to document work, record test results, and communicate with engineering and production teams. Collaborate and communicate effectively with engineering and production staff, both verbally and in writing, to clarify requirements, resolve issues, and support continuous improvement. Adapt quickly to changing roles and responsibilities while maintaining productivity and accuracy in a challenging, fast-paced work setting. Work overtime and weekend shifts when needed to support production schedules and customer demands. Essential Skills At least 2 years of experience working in a manufacturing setting, ideally within aerospace, electronics, or medical industries, performing mechanical assemblies. Proficiency with common hand tools and power tools, including pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, depth micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, pressure gauges, multimeters, and test boxes or specialized test equipment. Ability to read wiring diagrams, blueprints, and schematics, and to follow detailed assembly instructions. Working knowledge of common electrical components and their functions within assemblies. Proficiency with computer use, including standard web browsers and word processing applications, for documentation and communication. Strong troubleshooting skills for mechanical and electronic assemblies, including PCBA and electronic box assemblies. Ability to perform repetitive mechanical assembly work while maintaining high quality and consistency. Effective verbal and written communication skills for interaction with engineering and production teams. Ability to rapidly change roles and responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment. Ability and willingness to work 2nd shift (approximately 2:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.) and to work overtime and weekend shifts as needed. Capability to perform inspection tasks and ensure quality standards are met throughout the assembly process. Must have and wear steel toe or composite toe shoes or boots while on the production floor. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience in aerospace, electronics, or medical manufacturing environments. Experience assembling high quality wire harnesses, test racks, junction boxes, and related components. Hands-on experience with hand soldering and component fabrication for mechanical and electronic assemblies. Experience performing validation and testing of electronic components using multimeters, oscilloscopes, network analyzers, and test racks. Familiarity with RF systems, including testing and running RF-related equipment. Experience with air-frame construction techniques such as using rivets, mechanical fasteners, nut plates, and similar hardware. Experience in electronic box assembly troubleshooting and writing detailed issue tickets for failures. Experience running functional checkouts and tests and diagnosing issues discovered during these processes. Experience with PCBA assembly and troubleshooting. Comfort working in a high-growth, rapidly expanding production environment. Openness to the possibility of relocating to an Ohio facility in the future. Why Work Here? You will join a rapidly growing organization that offers long-term stability and the opportunity to build your career in a cutting-edge production environment. The company invests in training and development, providing clear paths for growth and skill enhancement. As you progress, you can access strong benefits and the potential for equity participation when moving into a direct role, aligning your success with the organization's continued expansion and new facility development. Work Environment You will work in a clean, modern manufacturing environment within a large organization that is actively growing and expanding, including building a new facility supported by recent funding. This role is on 2nd shift, typically from 2:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., with overtime available during the week and on Saturdays, and the possibility of weekend shifts when production demands increase. The work is highly repetitive and fast-paced, with a strong focus on high-volume production and consistent quality. You will regularly use hand and power tools, soldering equipment, inspection tools, and electronic test equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, network analyzers, and test racks. The facility emphasizes safety, including the requirement to wear steel toe or composite toe shoes or boots while on the production floor. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Santa Ana, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $35.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Santa Ana, CA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Aug 11, 2026.