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Manufacturing Engineer III, Solar

Sierra Space
life insurance, paid time off, 401(k)
United States, Colorado, Broomfield
390 Interlocken Crescent (Show on map)
Dec 04, 2025
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 RoleAs a Manufacturing Engineer in the Solar Power group, you will be part of a team responsible for the build and integration of solar array systems that power spacecraft for customers in all sectors of the space economy. Sierra Space has developed and patented novel pick-and-place surface mount solar cell technology which will revolutionize the way space rated solar power systems are built. You will be a part of the team that will scale the process to enable world-class high-volume production and test of both small and large solar power systems, including multi-panel deployable arrays. This role will work heavily alongside the design, test, program management and quality teams to ensure that all schedule and quality objectives are consistently met for our customers, and that we are advancing the state of the art for Solar Array build efficiency.

Key responsibilities include reviewing engineering designs for producibility, developing tooling, fixtures, and facilities, and establishing overall build plans to support efficient manufacturing processes. This role involves executing new product introduction (NPI) builds across all work centers, performing process development, validation, and transitioning to production within aggressive timelines. You will assist with the initial concepting, setup, and programming of Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) lines, including facility requests and equipment setup, while also programming, operating, and training technicians on automated equipment during the initial standup phase. Collaboration with the tooling team will be essential to design custom fixtures for PCBA, ensuring efficient process flow and seamless integration with Surface Mount Technology (SMT) lines. Additional responsibilities include triaging non-conforming products, driving resolution and preventative actions, resolving production issues while maintaining design integrity, product quality, and delivery timelines, and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement in yield, rate, and cost. You will also define and execute maintenance schedules, support activities, and specify equipment requirements for new build processes. This role includes performing internal research and development (IRAD) designs to optimize SMT process yield, developing design for manufacturability (DFM) guidelines, and providing solutions to streamline space-grade circuit board assembly and test processes, including flying probe, AOI, functional testing, reflow soldering, selective soldering, and conformal coating. Finally, you will facilitate close collaboration with the engineering team throughout design, build, and test phases to provide critical design feedback and ensure alignment with production goals. 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:
  • Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Masters +3 yrs experience).

  • Typically 5+ years of related experience.

  • In-depth knowledge of manufacturing technologies and automation.

  • Proficiency in CAD software (ex: NX).

  • Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

  • Experience in process optimization and efficiency improvement.

  • Ability to lead cross-functional teams in process improvement projects.

  • In-depth knowledge of manufacturing process validation and verification.

  • Experience in developing and implementing manufacturing plans.

  • Proficiency in using manufacturing management software.

  • Ability to analyze manufacturing performance data and identify trends.

  • Knowledge of reliability engineering principles.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree in aerospace, mechanical, manufacturing engineering, or a related discipline.

  • Certification in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma (e.g., Black Belt).

  • Proven track record in a space or aerospace manufacturing setting.

  • In-depth understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including structures, mechanisms, avionics, propulsion, and high-pressure systems.

  • Demonstrated ability to create and implement processes from the ground up while engaging a diverse team.

  • Successful introduction of new aerospace hardware systems into manufacturing, testing, and production environments.

  • Experience implementing AS9100 quality standards.

  • Proficiency in onboarding and utilizing MES, PLM, and ERP systems.

  • Experience producing J-STD-001 Class 2, IPC-A-610 Class 2, or equivalent hardware.

  • Hands-on experience with optimizing pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, conformal coating, or through-hole soldering systems.

  • Experience with wire harness routing, integration, and testing.

  • Experience with mechanical systems and mechanisms.

  • Knowledge of advanced manufacturing techniques, such as additive manufacturing and robotics.

  • Strong work ethic, drive to succeed, and willingness to work occasional long hours and weekends.

  • Hands-on experience in fast-paced, high-pressure, and autonomously driven start-up environments.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Compensation:

Pay Range:

$106,700.00 - $146,712.50

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.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

To conform to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

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 Corporationis 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 withSierra Spaceor at any stage of the recruitment process, pleasecontact us.

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