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Independent Contractor Astra Space Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astra Space, Inc.

HIL Engineer II

Alameda, CA · On-site

$92K - $130K/yr

Astra's mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected ... independent test case authorship. * Interface with flight software, avionics, and systems ...

Astra Space, Inc.

Director, Quality

Alameda, CA · On-site

$211K - $250K/yr

Astra's mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected ... Act as the independent reviewer for program execution, participating in design reviews, test ...

Astra Space, Inc.

In-House Legal Counsel

Alameda, CA · On-site

$198K - $264K/yr

* Astra's mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected ... You will be expected to manage matters independently, apply sound judgment in fast-moving ...

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How much do independent contractor astra space jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average weekly pay for independent contractor astra space in the United States is $1,089.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $721.15 and $1,211.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Astra Space vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectIndependent Contractor Astra SpaceAerospace Engineer
CredentialsVaries; often relevant experience, certifications in aerospace or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering or related field, professional licenses
Work EnvironmentProject-based, freelance, often remote or on-site at aerospace facilitiesFull-time, typically on-site at aerospace companies or research labs
Employer & Industry UsageContracted by aerospace companies like Astra Space for specific projectsEmployed by aerospace firms, government agencies, or research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYes, often compared for project-based work vs full-time roles

Independent Contractors at Astra Space typically work on specific projects, offering flexibility and specialized skills, whereas Aerospace Engineers are full-time employees involved in ongoing design, development, and testing activities within the aerospace industry. The main difference lies in employment status, scope of work, and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Contractor at Astra Space, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor at Astra Space, you generally need expertise in your specific technical field (such as engineering, software development, or project management) along with relevant education or experience. Familiarity with aerospace industry tools, CAD software, project management systems, and possibly security clearances are common requirements. Strong problem-solving, communication, and self-motivation are crucial soft skills for excelling in a dynamic and collaborative environment. These skills and qualifications are important to deliver high-quality work, meet project goals, and adapt to the fast-paced demands of the space industry.

What is an Independent Contractor at Astra Space?

An Independent Contractor at Astra Space is a professional who is hired on a contract basis to provide specialized services or expertise to the company, rather than being a full-time employee. These contractors may work on projects related to aerospace engineering, software development, logistics, or other areas crucial to Astra Space's mission. Independent contractors are responsible for managing their own schedules, taxes, and benefits, and typically work with greater flexibility but without the benefits that come with standard employment. Their work helps Astra Space scale quickly and access specialized skills for specific projects.

How do Independent Contractors at Astra Space typically collaborate with internal teams while maintaining autonomy?

Independent Contractors at Astra Space often work closely with internal teams such as engineering, project management, and operations, depending on the project's requirements. While contractors retain a degree of autonomy in managing their schedules and workflows, regular check-ins, project updates, and collaborative meetings are common to ensure alignment with company objectives. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as contractors are expected to integrate seamlessly with Astra Space's fast-paced, innovation-driven culture while delivering high-quality results on time.
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Astra Space jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Astra Space job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Astra Space jobs? The most popular types of Astra Space jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Astra Space jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Astra Space jobs include:
Independent Contractor Astra Space jobs near you
HIL Engineer II

HIL Engineer II

Astra Space, Inc.

Alameda, CA • On-site

$92K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Astra's mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry's leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.
The Opportunity
As a HIL Engineer, you'll work at the intersection of flight software, avionics hardware, and simulation - building and operating the test environments that verify our rocket's brain before it ever leaves the ground. Hardware-in-the-loop testing is how we find failure modes cheaply, and at Astra, it's tightly coupled to active flight programs. You'll work alongside flight software, avionics, and test engineers to stand up HIL benches, run test cases, and help close verification gaps on real hardware. Two or three years in, curious about how systems actually behave, and ready to do hands-on work that matters directly to launch - this role is for you.
Type Text Here
How You'll Fulfill Your Mission
  • Build, configure, and maintain HIL test benches integrating real avionics hardware with real-time simulation environments.
  • Execute test cases against flight software and avionics subsystems, logging results and identifying anomalies.
  • Develop and refine test scripts and simulation models under the guidance of senior engineers, building toward independent test case authorship.
  • Interface with flight software, avionics, and systems engineering teams to understand requirements and translate them into executable test scenarios.
  • Support integration of flight hardware onto bench - including harness connections, I/O mapping, and signal verification.
  • Maintain bench configuration documentation and test records in support of verification closure.

Why We Value You
  • 2+ years of experience in a test, lab, or development environment (internships, university programs, and personal projects count)
  • Exposure to real-time systems, embedded hardware, or software-hardware integration - you understand the difference between a simulation running fast and a simulation running correctly
  • Proficiency in at least one scripting or programming language (Python, MATLAB, C, or similar)
  • Comfortable reading schematics and understanding signal flow at a functional level
  • Familiarity with data acquisition, signal conditioning, or I/O hardware
  • B.S. in Electrical, Computer, Aerospace, or related engineering field

Desired Multipliers
  • Hands-on experience with real-time platforms (National Instruments VeriStand/cRIO, dSPACE, Speedgoat, or similar)
  • Exposure to avionics communication protocols (CAN, RS-422, SpaceWire, MIL-STD-1553, or similar)
  • Prior work on a verification or integration bench in any industry
  • Comfort reading flight software requirements or interface control documents

The pay range for this role is: $92,248 - $130,000
Salary and Benefits
We're competitive in compensation and offer equity as part of the package. We have great benefits that include health, vision, dental, and 401K in comparison to other startups. We provide lunch and there's plenty of snacks and drinks to get you through the day.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
ITAR Requirements: This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant's status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.
© Astra Space Operations, LLC. All rights reserved, Astra is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We encourage people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives to apply.
San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

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