Spacecraft Manufacturing Engineer

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 a talented and experienced Spacecraft Manufacturing Engineer to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will play a crucial role in the spacecraft manufacturing and test process, ensuring the seamless integration of components and systems for our advanced space systems. Your expertise in aerospace manufacturing, assembly, and integration will be essential in delivering high‑quality products that meet our stringent performance and reliability requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to develop manufacturing plans and strategies for aerospace components and systems, ensuring efficient and reliable production processes.
• Design, optimize, and implement assembly and integration procedures, work instructions, and manufacturing tools and fixtures.
• Lead the cut-in and ramp-up of new products through collaboration with engineering & production teams, own the transition of products from development to production
• Work closely with design engineers to review product designs for manufacturability and provide feedback to enhance production efficiency and ease of assembly.
• Develop and implement quality control measures, including inspection criteria, test plans, and non‑conformance resolution processes, to ensure adherence to specifications and industry standards.
• Support the manufacturing of aerospace components and systems, troubleshooting issues, and implementing corrective actions to maintain production schedules and quality targets.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing processes, reduce costs, and improve product quality and reliability.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and best practices throughout the manufacturing and integration processes.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements and best practices in aerospace manufacturing, assembly, and integration technologies.
• Provide technical support and guidance to production personnel, resolving technical issues and providing training as needed.

Requirements:

• U.S. Persons status is required as this position needs to access export‑controlled data.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of experience in aerospace manufacturing, assembly, and integration, ideally in an environment with a high production rate.
• Strong understanding of aerospace manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in interpreting engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documents.
• Experience in developing manufacturing plans, assembly procedures, and work instructions.
• Experience with manufacturing tools and software, such as CAD/CAM, PLM, or ERP systems.
• Experience with planning and/or executing electrical/functional testing of components and/or full spacecraft
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and business needs.

Differentiators:

• Knowledge of quality control methodologies, including inspection techniques and root cause analysis.
• Familiarity with industry standards and best practices in aerospace manufacturing, such as AS9100 or similar quality management systems.
• Experience in programming (Python, LabVIEW, etc.)
• Experience in environmental testing (i.e. vibration, thermal, pneumatic testing)
• Familiarity with the interactions of spacecraft subsystems, experience making cross‑functional design decisions/trades

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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 that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

What We Offer For Full‑time Employees:

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 socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and 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 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

Additional Information:

Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. A candidate's specific level and base pay are determined case by case and may vary with job‑related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity. Beyond base salary, full‑time hires are also eligible for long‑term incentives in the form of stock options, along with medical, dental, and vision coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Apex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To be eligible for this role, applicants must either (1) qualify as a U.S. Person, meaning a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee admitted under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an individual granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or (2) be able to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Commerce, or another applicable U.S. government agency. You can learn more about ITAR here .

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.