Propulsion Technician

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

Mach is seeking a safety-focused Propulsion Technician to support the manufacturing of energetic materials, propellant preparation and mixing, and controlled chemical processing for mission-critical defense systems. In this hands-on role, you will work with specialized manufacturing equipment, follow approved procedures, and maintain rigorous safety, quality, and traceability standards in a fast-paced production environment. You will collaborate closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, EHS, and Test teams to deliver reliable materials and hardware for downstream operations and testing.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform assigned manufacturing operations involving propellant preparation and mixing, energetic materials, and controlled batch processing in accordance with released work instructions and approved process specifications.
• Handle, label, move, and store hazardous or reactive chemicals, including hypergolic materials when assigned, only after completing required training and authorization and in accordance with EHS-approved procedures.
• Complete pre-task safety checks; verify required personal protective equipment (PPE), equipment readiness, and safety controls; promptly stop and escalate work when unsafe conditions or process deviations are identified.
• Operate and inspect assigned production equipment, mixing systems, tooling, and fixtures within documented operating requirements; report equipment issues and support readiness and calibration activities.
• Accurately complete batch records, manufacturing travelers, material lot and quantity records, and inventory transactions using Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and other controlled documentation.
• Perform self-inspections and support in-process quality checks, inspection hold points, and material traceability requirements before work proceeds to the next operation.
• Support pilot builds, pre-production trials, and new manufacturing processes while collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet quality and production deliverables.
• Partner with Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Test teams to identify process issues, investigate defects or test failures, and implement approved corrective actions.
• Maintain clean, organized, and compliant work areas using 5S practices, chemical labeling requirements, tool accountability, and proper material segregation and housekeeping.
• Support controlled material handoffs, test-article preparation, and downstream production or test activities while maintaining required documentation and accountability.
• Work independently on assigned tasks, adapt to daily priority changes, communicate clear shift handoffs, and provide feedback to improve safety, consistency, and manufacturing efficiency.
• Report hazards, near misses, and nonconformances promptly; participate in required safety training, emergency preparedness activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in a production, manufacturing, chemical processing, or industrial operations environment.
• Ability to follow detailed work instructions, process specifications, safety procedures, and batch or traveler documentation without unauthorized deviations.
• Understanding of basic workplace safety practices, including hazard communication, safety data sheets (SDS), PPE, and the importance of pre-task risk assessments.
• Comfort working with manufacturing equipment, tools, and controlled production documentation; willingness to complete role-specific safety and equipment qualifications.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate material identification, lot traceability, manufacturing records, and quality standards.
• Team-oriented approach with strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritize changing assignments, and maintain strict safety and quality standards.
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs and perform repetitive manufacturing tasks, with or without reasonable accommodation, and to work alternate shifts or extended hours as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in propellant mixing, energetics manufacturing, chemical batch processing, or the controlled handling of hypergolic or other highly hazardous substances.
• Experience in aerospace, defense, propulsion, or another high-reliability manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with manufacturing execution systems (MES), Jira, ERP/MRP, and controlled batch or traveler records.
• Knowledge of AS9100 / ISO 9001 quality practices, material genealogy, nonconformance reporting, and root-cause corrective action processes.
• Exposure to chemical hazard assessments, equipment readiness reviews, management of change, and emergency response preparedness.
• Experience supporting new product introduction (NPI), low-rate initial production (LRIP), or high-mix, low-volume production ramps.
• Familiarity with equipment inspection, calibration requirements, manufacturing process controls, and in-process quality verification.
• Exposure to lean manufacturing, 5S, visual management, Kaizen, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Additional Requirements

• Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here .

Level I $25 — $30 USD Level II $30 — $35 USD Level III $35 — $40 USD

At Mach, we believe that compensation is more than just a paycheck. It's a comprehensive package designed to reward the time, skills, and expertise you bring to our team. We are committed to offering competitive compensation that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with market trends.

Key Elements of Our Compensation Philosophy:

• Competitive Salaries: We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location.
• Performance-Based Incentives: Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win-win scenario that motivates our team members to excel.
• Equity Participation: We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company.