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Spacecraft Manufacturing Engineer

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Umbra logoUmbra · Santa Barbara, CA
Full-timeOn-siteToday
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About the role

Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is simple and ambitious: redefine space-for people, systems, and missions in every domain. Umbra's ecosystem operates through three business units: Remote Sensing (the data), Space Systems (the components), and Mission Solutions (the platforms).Together, our teams develop capabilities that deliver persistent access, resilient performance, and mission-ready solutions, advancing U.S. space leadership while keeping the world safe and informed. About the Team Space Systems - The Components Space Systems is where Umbra turns hardware and software designs into on-orbit realities; developing, implementing and iterating mission-ready core technology, while simultaneously advancing the next generation of our own satellite constellation. Space Systems is vertically integrated across the satellite architecture, thus the team designs, builds, and tests an array of critical components and subsystems, including power systems, communications, control systems, deployment hardware, avionics, and payloads, as well as the flight software, firmware and digital design solutions to support the entire hardware stack. Our focus is on first principles engineering, and our mandate is simple: it has to work when it counts. Every bolt, board, and binary is proven on our own SAR constellation, ensuring flight-proven reliability where failure is not an option. If you want to work on cutting edge space technology while maintaining the highest standard for innovation and mission ready performance, you belong here at Umbra. About the Job We are looking for a Spacecraft Manufacturing Engineer to lead the development and sustainment of Umbra's space vehicle and payload production lines. This position will work within Engineering in support of the Umbra SAR constellation expansion. This Spacecraft Manufacturing Engineer will be responsible for manufacturing compliance to processes and procedures used during production. They will aid in the development and support of manufacturing processes while working directly with and leading manufacturing personnel to resolve process issues real time. They will develop, implement, and continuously improve spacecrafts and payload, assembly, and integration manufacturing processes through strong working knowledge of engineering, manufacturing, machining, assembly, integration, tooling, test, and quality assurance techniques. This position is based on-site in our Santa Barbara, CA office. Key Responsibilities: Develop production procedures and processes and ensure they are accurately and clearly documented to allow repeatable and reliable manufacturing. Lead planning and execution of prototype builds, coordinating materials, hardware, engineering priorities, schedules, and technicians to successfully deliver build milestones. Perform training of production personnel and leadership on new and existing processes and procedures. Partner closely with hardware engineers to translate evolving designs into executable build plans, identifying manufacturing risks, tooling needs, and assembly sequencing. Contribute to design reviews, acting as an expert in design for manufacture and test. Oversee introduction and implementation of new products and product revisions. Resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non-conformances. Perform structured root cause analysis of in-process failures. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Manufacturing Engineering. 5+ years of experience supporting manufacturing, integration, or test of aerospace or other high-reliability hardware. Experience developing and improving manufacturing work instructions, build procedures, and travelers for complex assemblies. Hands-on experience supporting assembly and integration of electro-mechanical systems. Experience developing manufacturing plans, build procedures, and work instructions for first-time prototype builds and complex mechanical assemblies. Strong proficiency interpreting engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T (ASME Y14.5 preferably). Experience working cross-functionally with design engineering, quality, supply chain, and test teams. Strong technical documentation skills, including the ability to write clear manufacturing and test procedures. Experience interfacing with suppliers on technical requirements, part quality issues, and production readiness. Desired Qualifications 8+ years of aerospace or spacecraft manufacturing experience. Experience in a fast-paced, development-focused aerospace or startup environment. Familiarity with aerospace quality standards (AS9100 or equivalent) and configuration control processes. Direct experience with satellite or spacecraft subsystems, including deployable mechanisms, structural assemblies, or flight electronics integration. Experience supporting environ


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