Spacecraft Vehicle Manufacturing Engineer

OUR COMPANY  As an early mover in the in-space transportation and infrastructure services, Momentus is at the forefront of the commercialization of space. With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system.      OUR PEOPLE  Daring problems require daring solutions.  We boldly charge into uncharted territory knowing that no matter the outcome we will benefit from the journey and move closer to our goals no matter what. Our teams know that working at Momentus means more than building innovative technology, it means creating entirely new markets in the space economy. We are level-headed, business-minded strategic thinkers intent on providing immediate value to our customers today while simultaneously preparing for the vast possibilities of the future. If this sounds like you, we should talk.    JOB SUMMARY  We are seeking a Spacecraft Vehicle Manufacturing Engineer to support spacecraft Assembly, Integration, and Test (AI&T) for Momentus satellite bus programs with hosted payloads supporting commercial, scientific, and government missions.   This role is responsible for developing and sustaining end-to-end spacecraft manufacturing processes, including build sequences, tooling strategies, MGSE, and production methodologies. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, operates with a high degree of ownership, and bridges design, manufacturing, test, and quality to ensure scalable, compliant, and efficient spacecraft production.     Key Responsibilities:  Develop, own, and maintain spacecraft-level manufacturing plans, including AI&T build sequences, work instructions, travelers, and standard work  Define and implement production methodologies, tooling strategies, and MGSE, including fixture/tool design, validation, and lifecycle management  Design assembly fixtures, mechanisms, and production support equipment using CAD; generate drawings and manage fabrication through vendors  Propose and optimize sequence of operations, integration flow, and installation processes to maximize efficiency and minimize risk  Perform DFM/DFA analysis, tolerance stack-ups, and manufacturability assessments to ensure design compatibility with production constraints  Apply GD&T principles, tolerance analysis, and advanced metrology techniques to ensure compliance to engineering specifications  Support and/or oversee non-destructive testing (NDT) activities (ultrasonic, radiographic/X-ray, etc.) and ensure proper interpretation of results  Lead Manufacturing Readiness Reviews (MRR) and ensure production system readiness for spacecraft builds  Investigate and resolve technical, operational, and quality issues using structured root cause analysis and CAPA methodologies  Interface with Production, Design Engineering, Test, Quality, EH&S, and Supply Chain to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient execution  Support Test Operations by ensuring hardware readiness, configuration control, and manufacturability alignment  Ensure configuration control, traceability, and documentation integrity across all manufacturing processes and hardware  Mentor engineers and technicians and drive best practices for scalable spacecraft production  Participate in Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) and technical reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR, LRR) to ensure alignment between design and manufacturing    Required Skills and Experience  10–15 years of experience in aerospace or space manufacturing, spacecraft AI&T, or complex electromechanical system integration  Strong expertise in manufacturing process development, including work instructions, routing, build sequencing, and production flow optimization  Proven experience with tooling and fixture design, including CAD modeling, drawing release, and vendor fabrication support  Deep knowledge of GD&T, tolerance analysis, and precision measurement techniques  Experience interpreting and working with engineering drawings, specifications, and inspection/test data  Strong understanding of AS9100 / ISO9001 quality systems, including NCR, CAPA, FAI, and compliance enforcement  Experience with root cause analysis, problem solving, and continuous improvement methodologies  Hands-on experience supporting production floor activities in cleanroom or controlled environments  Strong communication and collaboration skills across cross-functional engineering and operations teams    Desired Skills and Experience:  MS in Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing Engineering or related field  Experience in spacecraft or high-reliability aerospace environments (NASA, DoD, commercial space)  Experience supporting or leading Environmental campaigns (TVAC, Vibration) and integration with Test Engineering teams  Familiarity with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods and interpretation of inspection results  Ability to contribute to systems-level trades, requirements flow-down, and vehicle architecture decisions impacting manufacturability  Experience scaling hardware from prototype through production (rate manufacturing), including line balancing and cycle time optimization  Experience with PLM/MES systems, digital manufacturing, and configuration management workflows  Demonstrated ability to operate across disciplines, stepping into Test, Quality, Integration, or Operations roles as needed  Experience interfacing with customers and supporting technical/program reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR, LRR)  Leadership experience mentoring engineers and technicians in a high-growth or startup environment  Strong adaptability and ownership mindset with the ability to solve ambiguous problems with minimal guidance   Education & Work Experience:  BS in Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing Engineering or related field (MS preferred)  5+ years of relevant experience in aerospace or space systems manufacturing  Compensation:  Annual Base Salary Range: $160,000.00 - $200,000.00/per year  Base pay is one part of our total compensation package (base+bonus+equity) and is determined within a range. Your actual base salary will be determined on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.  Our benefit plans include medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k retirement plan, short and long term disability and life insurance. We also offer flexible PTO, along with 11 paid holidays, sick time and paid parental leave.    This is a full-time position in San Jose, California. This position requires access to export-controlled commodities, technical data, technology, software, and services. U.S. citizenship, U.S. legal permanent resident status, or protected person status under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3) is required.   All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.  To all recruitment agencies: Momentus does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our employees or any company email. Momentus will not be responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.      Offices: San Jose, California, United States (San Jose, CA, United States);