Spacecraft Manufacturing Engineering Manager

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. 

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 production performance.
• 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 high-precision manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, lean principles, and quality control systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software and familiarity with automation and digital manufacturing tools.
• 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 teams.
• Passion for space technology and a desire to contribute to the advancement of satellite manufacturing.