Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technological innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The SARA High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and imaginative Assembly Technician to support research and development activities by offering assembly and fabrication support to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. The candidate will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-standing programs and new programs supporting our customers. Our small group will allow the candidate to experience, contribute, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary nature from conception all the way through to production.

The Assembly Technician will have a good understanding of industrial painting, materials, and processes, good mechanical skills, and understanding of electrical assembly. An ideal candidate will be comfortable and capable of working on their own, capable of both following detailed work instructions and be able to complete technical assembly work with limited documented instructions. Having knowledge of soldering processes and electrical assembly verifications is a plus but not required. This position is common to SARA and all SARA’s manufacturing environments. Candidates will have the opportunity to move within the company and be assigned to jobs as needed.

Core Responsibilities:

Capable of using production level mechanical and fabrication assembly tools which may include but not be limited to; assembly aids, measurement tools, both hand tools and power tools, torque wrenches, and other tools needed to perform necessary job functions
Work closely with Inventory team to ensure parts and supplies are available in a timely manner to complete work on schedule
Able to read and follow detailed work instructions
Work closely with QA/QC team to immediately report non-compliance with technical drawings and/or work instructions
Interact with all levels of engineering staff and outside vendors
Provide feedback for process improvements, or process risks that could lead to inconsistencies in the final product
Focused work in multiple areas across SARA depending on needs at the time
- Assembly – Electrical
  - Capable of working in an Electric Static Discharge (ESD) controlled environment
  - Capable of using production level electrical assembly tools which may include but not be limited to: soldering tools, voltage meter, assembly aids, measurement tools, both hand tools and power tools, and other tools needed to perform necessary job functions
  - Verify quality of parts and assemblies using measurement and diagnostic tools
- Painting
  - Painting and associated tasks to prepare products
  - Maintain equipment and associated tools for consistent paint application
  - Perform proper surface preparation including but not limited to: cleaning, sanding, chemical treatment, and priming
- Assembly - Mechanical
  - Self-motivated and able to move between tasks effectively with limited directive
  - Comfortable working with hands and working in busy and production-based environments
  - Excellent verbal communication skills
  - Keep work areas clean and organized (floors, workbenches, equipment, tools, etc.)
Perform other duties and projects, as assigned

Requirements:

High school diploma or equivalent
2 – 7 years of relevant technical job experience
Must be able to pass and maintain ‘pass’ status on OSHA-approved Pulmonary Fitness Test (PFT) in order to wear a respirator for prolonged periods of time, if applicable
High attention to detail
Ability to complete assigned tasks and special assignments using documented work instructions with minimal supervision
Ability to read and understand engineering schematics and technical drawings
Ability to understand and follow work instructions
Ability to safely work with electrical assembly tools and equipment
May require moderate physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 30+ pounds
Working environment is both indoor and outdoor, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated, moderate physical and electrical hazards may exist
US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance
Ability to visually inspect, position, align, solder, and finish components successfully; distinguish materials, measurements, markings, and surface conditions; and safely perform detailed work using appropriate eye and face protection. Ability to perform these functions with or without reasonable accommodation

Preferred Qualifications:

8 – 10 years of relevant technical experience
Professional painting experience in either automotive or marine painting applications.
IPC-J-STD-001 Requirements for Soldered Electrical and Electronic Assemblies
IPC/WHMA-A-620 Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies
Ability to assemble and manufacture against IPC Class 3 standards
Capable of reading and understanding technical drawings
Overhead crane operating experience
Forklift driving experience
Active Secret or Top-Secret security clearance

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
Tuition & certification reimbursement
Flexible work schedules
Discretionary Employee bonuses
401(k) match/profit sharing
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Pay Range:

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $22 to $30 (hourly USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline: October 23, 2026

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.

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