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Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing Jobs in California

Guide material testing in the Materials & Processes Laboratory * Coordinate with other disciplines ... Ultrasonic Phased Array * Experience working in an engineering or scientific lab * 5+ years of ...

The Role We are looking for an RF Test & Systems Engineer to own the testing, characterization, and system‑level validation of our mmWave beamforming chips and phased array platforms. This role ...

Experience with phased array antenna calibration techniques and procedures * Familiarity with RF test equipment and antenna measurement techniques, including near-field and far-field chamber testing ...

Antenna Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $240K/yr

... testing, and integration of advanced antenna systems for our next-generation Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. You will tackle challenging problems in antenna and phased array technology ...

Showing results 41-60

Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing information

See California salary details

$49.3K

$86.6K

$141.6K

How much do phased array ultrasonic testing jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for phased array ultrasonic testing in California is $86,558.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a phased array ultrasonic testing technician?

To thrive as a Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) Technician, you need a solid understanding of ultrasonic testing principles, material properties, and a relevant certification such as ASNT Level II or III in PAUT. Familiarity with PAUT instruments, data acquisition software, and reporting systems is essential for accurate inspections. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication set top technicians apart in interpreting results and collaborating with teams. These skills ensure precise flaw detection, compliance with industry standards, and the safety and integrity of critical assets.

What are some common challenges faced by phased array ultrasonic testing technicians in the field?

PAUT technicians often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex data from inspections, especially on components with irregular geometries or varying material properties. Working conditions can also be demanding, with inspections sometimes taking place in confined spaces, at heights, or in harsh industrial environments. Additionally, effective communication with engineers and other NDT professionals is crucial, as technicians must accurately report findings and collaborate on solutions. Continuous learning is essential to keep up with evolving technologies and industry standards.

What is the difference between Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing vs Ultrasonic Testing Technician?

AspectPhased Array Ultrasonic TestingUltrasonic Testing Technician
CertificationsASNT Level II/III, PCN, or equivalentASNT Level I/II, PCN, or equivalent
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, aerospace, power plants, manufacturingManufacturing, maintenance, quality control
Tools & TechniquesAdvanced phased array equipment, complex data analysisStandard ultrasonic equipment, basic flaw detection

Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing involves advanced equipment and detailed data analysis for precise flaw detection, often requiring higher certifications. Ultrasonic Testing Technicians perform basic ultrasonic inspections using standard tools. Both roles are essential in quality control across industries, but Phased Array offers more complex inspection capabilities.

What is phased array ultrasonic testing?

Phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) is an advanced nondestructive testing method used by ultrasonic testing technicians to inspect materials and welds for flaws. It employs multiple ultrasonic elements that can be electronically steered, focused, and scanned to create detailed images of internal structures, improving detection accuracy and coverage. Certification and knowledge of ultrasonic equipment are essential for professionals performing PAUT inspections.

What are popular job titles related to Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing jobs in California?

For Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,558 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

GNC Engineer, Phased Array Devices (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

SpaceX
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$145K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
GNC ENGINEER, PHASED ARRAY DEVICES (STARSHIELD)
Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use, Starshield is designed for government use, with an initial focus on earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads.
As an engineer on this team, you will bring a passion and expertise in areas like control theory, state estimation, orbital mechanics, spacecraft systems design, optimization, and software development to join the Starshield GNC team. This role is specifically dedicated toward GNC algorithm design and development for Starshield user terminals, which directly connect users on the ground to the space-based Starshield network. The software you write will be deployed directly to production systems that are in the hands of the end-users of the various unique Starshield capabilities; as such, this role is high impact and crucial to providing continuous improvement to the utility and quality of Starshield's products and mission.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and analysis of GNC logic for Starshield phased array antennas
  • Real-time angular and translational navigation using onboard sensors and optimal state estimation techniques
  • Design of beam-steering logic to track and hand-off satellites while maximizing link integrity in challenging operational environments
  • Development of GNSS independent PNT (position, navigation, and timing) algorithms
  • Design and implementation of all of the above for high-velocity/high-maneuverability platforms
  • Provide engineering and data review support for hardware development, special projects, and customer support triage
  • Work with hardware engineers on the design and specification of future user terminal products and their navigation sensor packages
  • Model derivation and high fidelity simulation for development and validation of prototype features
  • Implementation, validation, unit testing, and deployment of production software (C++) pertinent to the systems described above

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, computer science/software engineering, or an engineering discipline
  • Software development experience in C++, Python, and/or MATLAB/Simulink
  • Experience with attitude determination and/or state estimation algorithms

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline
  • Demonstrated project or professional experience in state estimation, feedback control, robotics, antenna design and actuation, or similar
  • Direct experience with inertial navigation systems, GNSS, and phased array antenna systems
  • Experience with translational state estimation in the absence of GNSS ranging and timing information
  • Experience with loosely/tightly coupled state estimation
  • Linux development experience
  • Strong understanding of classical dynamics, modeling and simulation, and software development
  • Capable of identifying and solving complex problems with little to no supervision or direction
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up atmosphere
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance, or the ability to obtain and maintain one

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Able to work extended hours and weekends as needed to support critical path development and/or critical on-orbit operations
  • An active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions; if so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $125,000.00 - $160,000.00
Level 2: $145,000.00 - $195,000.00
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $20,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.
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.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US