Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Role Overview

The Lead Manufacturing Engineer provides technical leadership for the development, validation, and sustainment of manufacturing processes, tooling, fixtures, and mechanical ground support equipment (MGSE) supporting spacecraft assembly, integration, and test (AIT).

The individual establishes technical direction for manufacturing development activities, ensuring manufacturing solutions meet program requirements while balancing quality, schedule, cost, safety, and scalability. Working closely with Design Engineering, Systems Engineering, Test Engineering, Production, Quality, and Program Management, the role ensures manufacturing readiness is achieved before hardware enters production.

Beyond technical execution, the Lead Engineer mentors junior engineers, develops team capability, promotes engineering best practices, and creates a collaborative environment focused on continuous improvement and Design for Excellence (DFX) initiatives.