How to Be Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 16, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Spacecraft electrical systems technicians are responsible for maintaining the electrical systems of spacecraft. These technicians must have a thorough understanding of how electricity works, as well as knowledge and expertise in electricity-related troubleshooting, testing, and repair. By ensuring that all electrical systems within a spacecraft are functioning properly, these technicians play an important role in the successful launch and operation of a spacecraft.

This includes diagnosing and repairing any potential problems with the wiring, electrical components, and other systems within the craft. The effects of their work can be far-reaching, as any electrical issue can lead to a malfunction or failure of the spacecraft, resulting in a costly setback to the mission.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. A high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement to become a spacecraft electrical systems technician.
Enroll in a postsecondary program in electronics technology or a related field. Postsecondary programs in electronics technology or a related field are available at two-year technical colleges and universities. These programs teach students about electrical systems, wiring, circuit boards, and other related topics important to becoming a spacecraft electrical systems technician.
Complete an apprenticeship program. Many employers of spacecraft electrical systems technicians require applicants to have experience in the field. Completing an apprenticeship program is one of the best ways to gain this experience. Apprenticeships usually last for one to four years and involve working under the supervision of an experienced spacecraft electrical systems technician.
Obtain certification. Certification is not required to become a spacecraft electrical systems technician, but it can help demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers. The Electronics Technicians Association International (ETA-I) offers several certifications related to spacecraft electrical systems, including Certified Electronics Technician (CET) and Certified Satellite Communications Technician (CSCT).
Apply for positions. After completing your training and gaining experience, you can apply for positions as a spacecraft electrical systems technician. Job postings for these positions can be found on job search websites, or you can contact companies directly to inquire about job openings.

Staying ahead and competent as a spacecraft electrical systems technician requires a commitment to continued education and training. By staying up-to-date on the latest developments in the field, such as new technologies, safety protocols, and industry regulations, technicians can be more confident in their abilities. by taking advantage of opportunities such as attending seminars, webinars, or other specialized workshops, technicians can stay current on the latest trends and best practices in the industry.

Finally, networking with other professionals in the field can help build relationships and increase understanding of the field. With these steps, a spacecraft electrical systems technician can stay ahead and competent in their career.

You may want to check Space Programs Manager, Spacecraft Designer, and Space Exploration Specialist for alternative.

Job Description

Install, maintain and troubleshoot electrical systems onboard spacecraft.
Inspect and replace faulty components in spacecraft electrical systems.
Analyze and diagnose problems with spacecraft electrical systems.
Monitor and adjust spacecraft electrical systems to ensure optimal performance.
Read and interpret electrical schematics and diagrams.
Develop and implement test procedures for spacecraft electrical systems.
Train personnel on the proper operation of spacecraft electrical systems.
Maintain accurate records of all maintenance and repair activities.
Adhere to safety procedures when working with spacecraft electrical systems.
Consult with engineers to design, build and modify electrical components for spacecraft.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to read and understand engineering drawings, diagrams, and schematics.
Knowledge of electrical system components, such as voltage regulators, capacitors, and resistors.
Understanding of spacecraft power distribution systems.
Proficiency in using electrical test equipment, including multimeters and oscilloscopes.
Knowledge of electrical safety protocols and procedures.
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose electrical system issues.
Ability to use hand tools, such as pliers, wire strippers, and soldering irons.
Ability to construct and maintain electrical systems, such as junction boxes and wiring harnesses.
Ability to read and interpret assembly instructions.
Knowledge of codes and standards related to spacecraft electrical systems.

To be an effective spacecraft electrical systems technician, it is essential to have a strong understanding of electrical engineering and the principles of operation of electrical components. This knowledge is necessary to properly design, install, troubleshoot, and repair complex electrical systems. excellent problem-solving skills are needed to identify the root cause of a system issue and develop a solution that meets the needs of the mission.

Interpersonal skills are also important, as technicians must be able to work with other teams in order to coordinate their efforts to complete projects on time and on budget. Finally, attention to detail is a must, as any mistake or oversight in the design or implementation of a system could have catastrophic effects on the mission. With all these essential skills, spacecraft electrical systems technicians can ensure that the critical systems they manage operate safely and reliably.

Space Systems Engineer, Spacecraft Systems Architect, and Space Launch Range Safety Officer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in electrical systems engineering?
Describe a time when you successfully troubleshot an electrical system.
What challenges have you faced in maintaining spacecraft electrical systems?
How do you ensure that the electrical systems in a spacecraft are operating safely and efficiently?
How have you used different types of testing to assess the performance of spacecraft electrical systems?
Explain your experience with developing and implementing maintenance schedules for spacecraft electrical systems.
What steps do you take to ensure that all electrical components are correctly connected and installed?
How familiar are you with the latest spacecraft electrical system technologies and standards?
What strategies do you use to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in spacecraft electrical engineering?
Describe a recent project you worked on involving spacecraft electrical systems.

Common Tools in Industry

Multimeter. used to measure electrical current, voltage, and resistance. (eg: Fluke 87 Multimeter)
Soldering Iron. a tool used to join metal parts by melting and applying solder. (eg: Weller W60P Soldering Iron)
Wire Stripper. a tool used to strip insulation off of electrical wires. (eg: Klein Tools 11063 Wire Stripper)
Crimpers. used to make electrical connections by compressing parts or wires. (eg: Klein Tools J2000-9NE Crimpers)
Insulation Stripper. a tool used to strip insulation off of electrical wires. (eg: Ideal Industries 45-164 Insulation Stripper)
Torque Wrench. a wrench used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts to a specific torque. (eg: Snap-On TM-500 Torque Wrench)
Heat Gun. a tool used to heat up components and materials in order to bend or shape them. (eg: Milwaukee M18 Heat Gun)
Pliers. a tool used to grip, twist, and cut wires. (eg: Channellock 909 Pliers)
Cable Cutters. a tool used to cut through electrical cables and wires. (eg: Knipex 95 42 Cable Cutters)
Screwdrivers. a tool used to turn screws in order to secure components. (eg: Craftsman 9-41796 Screwdriver Set)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
Spacecraft Electrical Power Association (SEPA)
International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE)
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
International Astronautical Federation (IAF)
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
National Aeronautic Association (NAA)
European Space Agency (ESA)
National Space Society (NSS)

We also have Space Payload Specialist, Spacecraft Avionics Engineer, and Space Port Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Electrical Power System (EPS). a system of components that provides electrical power to the spacecraft.
Battery. a device that stores electrical energy and supplies it when needed.
Solar Panels. devices that convert sunlight into electrical energy.
Inverter. a device that converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC).
Loads. the electrical devices powered by the spacecraft electrical system.
Power Distribution System (PDS). a system of components that distributes electrical power from the EPS to the loads.
Charge Controller. a device that regulates the amount of electrical energy from the EPS to the batteries.
Ground Support Equipment (GSE). equipment used to support and test the spacecraft electrical systems during ground operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technician?

A Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technician is a professional who is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems onboard spacecraft.

What type of tasks do Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technicians perform?

Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technicians typically perform tasks such as installing and troubleshooting electrical systems, wiring, and components; testing and calibrating systems and components; and conducting maintenance checks.

What qualifications are required to become a Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technician?

To become a Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technician, one must typically have a minimum of two years of experience in the field as well as an associates degree in electrical engineering or a related field.

What type of environment do Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technicians work in?

Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technicians usually work in a laboratory or other confined environment, such as a spacecraft control room.

What tools do Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technicians use?

Spacecraft Electrical Systems Technicians typically use hand tools such as screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, and soldering irons, as well as test equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, and logic analyzers.