Manufacturing Engineer

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking a motivated and technically driven Manufacturing Engineer to support the development, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing processes for our Ranger spacecraft program at our Hawthorne, California manufacturing center. In this role, you will design and develop production processes, tooling, fixtures, and work instructions supporting spacecraft component fabrication, subassembly, and final integration.
You will play a critical role in bridging the gap between design engineering and manufacturing operations, translating engineering designs into safe, efficient, and repeatable production processes. Working closely with design engineers, manufacturing technicians, quality, and production teams, you will support new product introduction, first-article builds, production line development, and continuous improvement initiatives as Ranger transitions into rate production.
This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys hands-on problem-solving, working directly with technicians on the manufacturing floor, and taking ownership of manufacturing processes in a fast-paced environment where innovation, efficiency, and mission success are essential.
Where You’ll Make an Impact
Develop and release manufacturing processes, work instructions, routings, and bills of process for spacecraft structures, propulsion assemblies, harnesses, and integration
Design and procure tooling, fixtures, and ground support equipment required for production
Partner with design engineering on design for manufacturability, assembly, and testability; drive drawing and tolerance changes with data
Lead new product introduction for your area, including first-article builds, process qualification, and transition to rate
Plan production line layout, workstation design, and material flow for your area
Own first-pass yield, cycle time, and cost in your area; identify and execute improvements using Lean and Six Sigma tools
Lead root cause and corrective action on nonconformances and production issues
Support technician training and certification on new processes
Ensure processes comply with safety, quality, and mission assurance requirements
What It Takes
Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
2+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process engineering, or production engineering in a manufacturing environment
Nice-to-Have Experience
Experience in aerospace, spacecraft, launch vehicle, automotive, or other high-reliability manufacturing
Experience standing up a new production line, facility, or cell
Experience writing work instructions and routings in an MES or ERP system
Experience with tooling and fixture design in NX, SolidWorks, or Creo
Experience with GD&T, tolerance analysis, and design for manufacturability
Experience in one or more of: composite and metallic structures, precision machining, welding and tank fabrication, fluid systems, harness and avionics assembly, or spacecraft integration
Experience with Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and structured problem solving
Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems and mission assurance practices for flight hardware
Comfortable on the factory floor working directly with technicians
What You’ll Get
Ownership – Take responsibility for developing and improving manufacturing processes, tooling, and production workflows for mission-critical spacecraft hardware, supporting production readiness from initial fabrication through final integration
Innovation – Contribute to advanced spacecraft manufacturing technologies, production methods, and process improvements that enable efficient, scalable manufacturing of next-generation spacecraft
Impact – Play a direct role in delivering reliable, high-quality spacecraft hardware supporting national security, civil, and commercial missions
Growth – Join a collaborative, fast-paced engineering and manufacturing team where you can expand your technical expertise, take ownership of meaningful projects, and help establish and scale our Hawthorne manufacturing operations
Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation.
Location: Hawthorne, CA
Base Salary: $100,000 to $130,000
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.
Additional Requirements
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.