Spacecraft Manufacturing Engineering Manager
Apex
Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.
For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.
Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.
We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.
About the Role
Apex is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineering Manager to lead and grow our manufacturing engineering team. This role will focus on developing and optimizing production processes, ensuring high-quality satellite manufacturing, and driving continuous improvement across all aspects of our operations. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, technical expertise, and a hands-on approach to delivering efficient, scalable, and reliable manufacturing solutions.
Responsibilities:
Lead and manage the manufacturing engineering team, including hiring, mentoring, and performance management.
Develop and implement scalable manufacturing processes for small satellite production, ensuring efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, test, and supply chain, to align manufacturing strategies with product development.
Establish and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor and improve overall team performance and technical debt.
Oversee the design and implementation of production tooling, fixtures, and automation to optimize throughput and reduce variability.
Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing capabilities, reduce cycle times, and improve product reliability.
Manage manufacturing budgets, timelines, and resource allocation to meet production goals.
Support the scaling of production operations as the company grows, including the design of new manufacturing facilities and processes.
Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
6+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
Proven experience in aerospace, satellite, or related industries, with a focus on enabling rate production of high-precision assemblies.
Demonstrated ability and passion for people leadership, focused on coaching and mentoring team members to drive strong performance
Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, lean principles, and quality control systems.
Proficiency in developing, executing and automating various forms of testing/checkouts, including high pressure testing, environmental testing, and/or functional checkouts
Excellent project management and organizational skills, with a track record of delivering on-time and within budget.
Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across both engineering & production teams
Passion for space technology and a desire to contribute to the advancement of satellite manufacturing.
Compensation
Salary Range: $160,000 - $190,000 a year
The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range and excludes additional benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.
Why Join Apex?
Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series C funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.
What We Offer:
Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social gatherings for you and your family
Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
World-class Playa Vista office with EV chargers, with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference
Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, 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.