ABOUT MDA SPACE
Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. The global MDA Space team of more than 3,800 space experts has the knowledge and know-how to turn an audacious customer vision into an achievable mission – bringing to bear a one-of-a-kind mix of experience, engineering excellence and wide-eyed wonder that’s been in our DNA since day one. For those who dream big and push boundaries on the ground and in the stars to change the world for the better, we’ll take you there. For more information, visit www.mda.space (http://www.mda.space/).
We’re on the hunt for a Mechanical/PCB & Harness Assembler on our Robotics and Space Operations team at our Kanata office.
With 40 years of operational experience and proven performance on the iconic Canadarm programs including Space Shuttle and International Space Station robotics and operations support, our Robotics & Space Operations team has 100% mission success in making space dreams come true.
As a Mechanical/PCB & Harness Assembler, you will perform mechanical assemblies, high‑reliability IPC‑Class‑3/NASA soldering, and wire‑harness fabrication to IPC specifications; verify work with a digital multimeter; collaborate with engineers and quality to prototype, document, and ensure on‑time delivery of compliant assemblies. The role reports to the Manufacturing Manager and works within an existing assembly team.
Core Responsibilities:
- Mechanical Assembly – Follow schematics, drawings, and work instructions to build and install mechanical sub‑assemblies, using torque wrenches and basic hand tooling
- PCB & CCA Soldering – Perform high‑reliability soldering of PCBs and circuit card assemblies (CCA) to IPC‑Class‑3 / NASA standards; conduct rework and repair as needed
- Wire‑Harness Fabrication – Build, crimp, splice, and terminate harnesses, route and secure cables in mechanical assemblies
- Collaboration – Work with design engineers to prototype new products, provide feedback on manufacturability, and support engineering change requests
Required Skills & Abilities:
- Mechanical assembly experience following detailed drawings and procedures
- Strong soldering proficiency (IPC‑Class‑3) on PCBs, CCA, and related components
- Wire‑harness building skills—crimping, splicing, connector installation per IPC/WHMA‑A‑620 and related specifications
- Proficiency with torque wrenches and digital multimeters
- Ability to work independently and as part of a cross‑functional team
- Attention to detail and a continuous‑improvement mindset
Preferred (Nice‑to‑Have) Skills:
- Optical‑assembly experience (mirror/prism bonding)
- Familiarity with additional electrical test equipment (beyond a digital multimeter)
Certification Expectations:
- Preferred/Asset: Active IPC‑Class‑3 certifications covering IPC/WHMA‑A‑620, IPC‑A‑610, NASA STD‑1, IPC J‑Standard (and space‑application addenda)
- Training: In‑house training/re‑training can be provided for candidates who do not yet hold the full suite of certifications, if needed
Education & Experience
- Minimum: 5–10+ years of hands‑on experience in mechanical assembly, PCB soldering, and IPC‑standard harness fabrication
- Education: Post‑secondary education is an asset but not required; extensive experience and/or active IPC certification may substitute
We’re a dream team of purpose-driven, collaborative and passionate people, and we are constantly looking for others to join #TeamMDA to ignite new and innovative approaches to problem-solving that push us forward to improve life on and above Earth. If you’re excited to expand our place in space and driven to inspire the next generation, we’ll take you there.
We have entered a new era of exploration and development, and MDA Space welcomes all who yearn to suit up and be part of it. An equal opportunity employer prizing diversity, integrity and collaboration, we are committed to growing MDA Space and Canada’s leadership in this next golden age.
Comments/Special Considerations:
Successful candidates must obtain and hold security clearance at the reliability status level, and pass security assessment for the Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and ITAR.
Benefits statement:
MDA Space provides competitive compensation and benefits packages for its employees at all locations. As a team member of MDA Space, you and your qualified dependents are eligible to participate in a benefit plan that ensures a comprehensive level of protection through competitive health care including; extended healthcare and flexible drug plans, dental and vision benefits, disability income protection, life insurance, group retirement savings plans; and an employee and family assistance program.
Equal opportunity statement:
MDA Space is an equal opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity. If you require assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please feel free to notify us.
Accommodations
MDA Ltd. is proud to provide accommodation(s) during the recruitment process. Should you require any accommodations, please indicate this on your application/cover letter and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs.
