Umbra builds next-generation space systems that observe the Earth in unprecedented fidelity.
Our mission is to deliver global omniscience.
To stay ahead of climate change, geopolitical risk, and other major crises and issues, we need a global understanding of what is changing, where, and how fast. Umbra provides easy access to the highest quality commercial satellite data available, which is an indispensable tool for the growing number of organizations monitoring the Earth. We empower our customers to create the solutions that inform, inspire, and address our planet’s most pressing needs. We’re helping to create a brand new industry that has never meaningfully existed before.
We are seeking a Spacecraft Manufacturing Engineer to spearhead the development and maintenance of Umbra’s space vehicle and payload production lines. This role involves collaboration with Manufacturing and Engineering teams, ensuring compliance with production processes and procedures. The engineer will assist in developing and refining manufacturing processes while directly leading personnel to address process issues as they arise. They will also be responsible for enhancing spacecraft and payload assembly and integration processes through a strong understanding of engineering, manufacturing, machining, assembly, integration, tooling, testing, and quality assurance techniques.
This position is based in our Santa Barbara, CA office.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and document production procedures and processes to ensure reliable and repeatable manufacturing.
- Provide engineering support for daily production and quality processes.
- Train production personnel and leadership on both new and existing procedures.
- Assist in establishing, communicating, and executing production plans, schedules, and budgets.
- Contribute to design reviews, serving as an expert in design for manufacturing and testing.
- Oversee the introduction and implementation of new products and product revisions.
- Resolve manufacturing discrepancies and non-conformances.
- Conduct structured root cause analysis for in-process failures.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Aerospace, or Manufacturing Engineering.
- 5+ years of experience in aerospace manufacturing.
- Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced development environment.
- Strong problem-solving skills, capable of working independently with minimal supervision.
- Proficient in system testing, electronics, and software troubleshooting.
- Excellent technical documentation and writing skills.
- Experience in supply chain and contract management, serving as a technical liaison to strategic suppliers.
Desired Qualifications
- 7+ years of aerospace manufacturing experience.
- Familiarity with satellite system assembly, including deployable space systems, moving mechanical assemblies, and mesh antennas.
- Knowledge of flight hardware quality control, mission assurance, and qualification processes.
- Experience with manufacturing safety and compliance standards.
- Proficiency in SolidWorks or PTC Creo.
- Experience leading aerospace technicians through complex production processes.
- Working knowledge of DFMEA, PFMEA methodologies, and Fault Tree Analysis.
- Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave
- Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
- Vol Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, Pet Insurance (employee funded)
- 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution
- Stock Options
Umbra is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We take affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.
Employment Eligibility Verification
In compliance with federal laws, all hired persons will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) upon hire.
ITAR/EAR Requirements
This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.
Pay Transparency
This job posting may cover multiple career levels. To ensure greater transparency, we provide base salary ranges for all roles, regardless of location. Our standard pay ranges are based on the role’s function and level, benchmarked against similar growth-stage companies. Compensation may vary based on geographical location, as certain regions may have different cost-of-living factors. The final offer will also be influenced by the candidate's skills, responsibilities, and relevant experience.
Compensation Range
The Compensation Range for this role is $95,000 - $120,000.
