Spacecraft Manufacturing Engineering Manager

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. 
Apex is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineering Manager to lead and grow our manufacturing engineering team. This role will focus on developing and optimizing production processes, ensuring high-quality satellite manufacturing, and driving continuous improvement across all aspects of our operations. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, technical expertise, and a hands-on approach to delivering efficient, scalable, and reliable manufacturing solutions.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the manufacturing engineering team, including hiring, mentoring, and performance management.
• Develop and implement scalable manufacturing processes for small satellite production, ensuring efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, test, and supply chain, to align manufacturing strategies with product development.
• Establish and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor and improve overall team performance and technical debt.
• Oversee the design and implementation of production tooling, fixtures, and automation to optimize throughput and reduce variability.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing capabilities, reduce cycle times, and improve product reliability.
• Manage manufacturing budgets, timelines, and resource allocation to meet production goals.
• Support the scaling of production operations as the company grows, including the design of new manufacturing facilities and processes.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 6+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in aerospace, satellite, or related industries, with a focus on enabling rate production of high-precision assemblies.
• Demonstrated ability and passion for people leadership, focused on coaching and mentoring team members to drive strong performance
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, lean principles, and quality control systems.
• Proficiency in developing, executing and automating various forms of testing/checkouts, including high pressure testing, environmental testing, and/or functional checkouts
• Excellent project management and organizational skills, with a track record of delivering on-time and within budget.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across both engineering & production teams
• Passion for space technology and a desire to contribute to the advancement of satellite manufacturing.

Salary Range: $130,000 - $180,000 a year The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range and excludes additional benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.
Benefits
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 offer the following benefits:
• Shared upside: receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create.  • Best-in-class healthcare, dental, vision plans. The primary and dependents’ premium is 99%+ covered. • Enjoy our comprehensive PTO package, to reset and recharge.• Competitive 401(k) plan and matching.   • Paid parental leave. • Daily lunch and unlimited snacks!• Community events like monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, a run club and more!• Your dream desk setup, tools, and whatever else you need to be your most productive self. • A world class office located in Playa Vista, filled with amazing cow