Manager, Manufacturing Engineering

Sierra Space Careers:

At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.

Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.

Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.

We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

About the Role

The Manager, Manufacturing Engineering is a strategic leadership role responsible for driving operational excellence across manufacturing operations through the application of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and Industry 4.0 technologies. This position leads cross-functional engineering teams in developing and implementing advanced manufacturing solutions that optimize production processes, reduce costs, and enhance product quality. The successful candidate will translate strategic manufacturing initiatives into actionable operational plans, manage complex projects and department budgets, and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement in a dynamic production environment.

The Manager, Manufacturing Engineering provides strategic direction and hands-on leadership to engineering teams, overseeing the planning, design, and implementation of production improvement projects from concept through completion. This role drives operational excellence through effective use of CAD/CAM systems, production automation technologies, and manufacturing execution systems (MES) while ensuring compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and quality management systems such as ISO 9001 and AS9100. The manager exercises strong financial stewardship by managing engineering budgets, evaluating capital equipment investments, and leading cost reduction initiatives that deliver measurable results.

Collaboration and team development are central to this role. The manager works closely with operations, quality, and supply chain teams to implement technical manufacturing solutions while effectively communicating with diverse audiences. This position is responsible for developing and mentoring manufacturing engineers, building technical capability, and cultivating a culture of continuous improvement. Throughout all activities, the Manager, Manufacturing Engineering upholds company values, holds team members accountable, and provides steady leadership during technological advancement and organizational change.

About You

Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.

We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree)
• Several years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience with a significant portion in a managerial or leadership role
• Deep understanding of manufacturing engineering principles, lean manufacturing concepts, and process optimization methodologies
• Proven experience leading cross-functional manufacturing engineering teams and managing complex production improvement projects from concept through implementation
• Demonstrated ability to translate strategic manufacturing initiatives into actionable operational plans while meeting quality standards, cost targets, and production deadlines
• Strong technical proficiency with manufacturing systems and technologies, including CAD/CAM systems and production automation
• Comprehensive knowledge of manufacturing industry standards, safety regulations, and quality management systems relevant to production environments
• Proven track record implementing process improvements that enhance manufacturing efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality
• Excellent communication skills to present technical manufacturing solutions to diverse audiences and collaborate effectively across functions
• Demonstrated ability to uphold and model company values while holding team members accountable in dynamic manufacturing environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (Master's or MBA) in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related field
• Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification
• Extensive experience implementing Industry 4.0 technologies and digital manufacturing solutions
• Demonstrated expertise with manufacturing execution systems (MES) implementation and optimization
• Direct experience with ISO 9001, AS9100, or other relevant quality management system certifications and audits
• Strong financial acumen with proven experience managing significant engineering budgets and capital equipment investments exceeding industry benchmarks
• Track record of developing high-performing engineering teams and building organizational capability through mentoring and talent development
• Experience leading manufacturing operations through significant technological transformation or organizational change initiatives
• Professional Engineering (PE) license or equivalent professional certification
• Experience in regulated industries with complex compliance requirements

Compensation:

Pay Range:

$142,009.00 - $195,283.00

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

Elevate Your Career

At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.

We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.

Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.

Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.