Aerospace Engineering and Manufacturing

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. 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.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. 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.

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.

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.

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.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.

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 environmental test campaigns (vibration, thermal vacuum, shock).
• Familiarity with contamination control practices and cleanroom assembly.
• Experience with flight hardware quality control, mission assurance, and qualification processes.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks or PTC Creo.
• Working knowledge of DFMEA, PFMEA, and Fault Tree Analysis.

Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
• Stock Options
• Free lunch in office daily

We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.