Staff Manufacturing Engineer

Company Overview
Apply promptly! A high volume of applicants is expected for the role as detailed below, do not wait to send your CV.
ExoTerra is a world leader in solarnelectric propulsion systems and space exploration satellites. The company develops Hall Thrusters, propulsion modules, microsatellites and launch vehicle upper stages. We have been awarded multiple propulsion module and satellite contracts.Position SummaryThe Staff Manufacturing Engineer serves as a technical leader and manufacturing authority responsible for enabling scalable, high-rate production of space hardware across multiple programs. This role drives manufacturing strategy, production readiness, and process excellence while ensuring products meet stringent aerospace quality and reliability standards.This position requires deep expertise in production system design, Assembly Integration & Test (AI&T), and cross-functional leadership, with a strong focus on transitioning complex hardware from development into repeatable, high-volume manufacturing.Essential Functions:Manufacturing Ownership & Production StrategyServe as the end-to-end manufacturing owner for complex parts, assemblies, and products across multiple programsDefine and implement manufacturing strategies to support high-rate production, cost targets, and delivery schedulesDrive production scalability, capacity planning, and line balancing to meet increasing build ratesAI&T LeadershipLead the planning, development, and execution of Assembly, Integration & Test (AI&T) activities, including mechanical systems and module-level testingEstablish standardized integration and test methodologies to improve repeatability, efficiency, and throughputDesign for Manufacturing LeadershipProvide authoritative manufacturing input during design phases and formal reviews (PDR, CDR, MRR, TRR)Drive DFM/DFA/DFT initiatives, influencing design decisions to optimize producibility, cost, and performanceApprove and sign off on engineering drawings and configurations for manufacturing readinessProcess Development & Continuous ImprovementArchitect and implement robust manufacturing processes, including tooling, fixtures, and automation solutionsLead continuous improvement initiatives leveraging Lean, Six Sigma, and advanced manufacturing techniquesEstablish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as yield, cycle time, OEE, and first-pass yield (FPY)Quality & Non-Conformance LeadershipLead and participate in non-conformance investigations (NCR), driving root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective actionsServe as a senior member of the Material Review Board (MRB), setting disposition strategies and quality standardsEnsure full compliance with customer, regulatory, and aerospace quality requirementsDocumentation & Manufacturing SystemsOversee the development and approval of manufacturing plans, travelers, SOPs, and control documentationEnsure complete and accurate data capture, traceability, and configuration control in all production documentationProduction Floor LeadershipProvide hands-on leadership on the production floor, resolving complex build issues and removing barriers to executionOversee manufacturing orders (MOs) and ensure alignment between production, engineering, and quality teamsSupply Chain & Inventory IntegrationPartner with Procurement and Supply Chain to ensure material availability aligns with production demandOversee inventory planning, tracking, inspection, and verification processes for production readinessManage risks related to material shortages, supplier performance, and lead timesMentorship & Technical LeadershipMentor and develop engineers and technicians, elevating team capability and manufacturing disciplineSet technical direction and best practices for manufacturing engineering across programsAct as a go-to subject matter expert (SME) for complex manufacturing challengesBasic QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Aerospace Engineering, or related field8-15 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with significant experience in high-reliability or aerospace/space hardware productionDemonstrated success scaling products from development into high-rate productionDeep expertise in AI&T, DFM/DFA/DFT, and production system designExtensive experience with non-conformance resolution and root cause methodologiesStrong familiarity with AS9100, GD&T, and aerospace quality standardsPreferred QualificationsExcellent verbal and written communication skillsExperience with Spacecraft Fabrication and TestExperience with non-conformance resolutionExperience with manufacturing process developmentExperience with ProgrammingExport Control / Compliance RequirementsTo conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Compensation & BenefitsThe good faith base salary range (OR hourly range) for this role is $135,000-$160,000 at the time of this posting. Where you fall within the range depends on your experience, skills, and location. This range reflects base salary only and does not include benefits or bonus/incentive. This range may be adjusted in the future.ExoTerra offers a comprehensive, total compensation package, which includes competitive salary, a discretionary annual bonus plan, paid time off (PTO), a comprehensive health benefit package and various other benefits. When you join our team, you’re not just an employee; you become part of a dynamic community dedicated to innovation and excellence. xzbcwsv Equal Employment Opportunity StatementExoTerra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.