Lead Manufacturing Engineer, Assembly, Integration & Test, Satellite Payload

At the heart of our Seattle operations, you will lead the charge in bringing complex satellite payloads from design to reality. As our first Lead Manufacturing Engineer, your mission is to drive the assembly, integration, and testing phases that ensure our technology reaches orbit with absolute reliability.

The Role: This is a high-impact, hands-on position designed for an experienced Lead Technician who is ready to step into a pivotal engineering role. We are looking for a builder and a mentor—someone who excels at technical execution while being passionate about developing and leading a world-class team of technicians in our SODO facility in Seattle, WA.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assemble and integrate subcomponents and final assemblies of all major structural, mechanical, fluid, and avionics systems according to engineering specifications. 
• Configure production work areas with necessary tooling and equipment to ensure efficient workflow and minimize delays during high-rate manufacturing transitions. 
• Operate precision calibrated tools (e.g., torque wrenches, micrometers) to maintain high safety and quality standards. 
• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives for safety, efficiency, and productivity. 
• Perform operational tests, troubleshooting, and fault isolation to ensure the integrity and reliability of assembled systems. 
• Support the transition from development to production, performing preventative maintenance as needed. 
• Maintain clean and organized work areas following 5S principles to promote safety and operational efficiency. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience with aerospace manufacturing, integration, or another related field. (3+ Level II Technician, 5+ Level III Technician, or Lead Technician is preferred.)
• Demonstrated ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications accurately. 
• Hands-on experience with assembly and integration of structural, mechanical, fluid, and avionic systems. 
• Proficient with precision calibration tools (torque wrenches, micrometers, calipers). 
• Capable of lifting 50 lbs and working at heights (work stands, ladders, lifts) and/or in confined spaces. 
• Experience with adhesives, sealants, and fasteners. 
• Basic proficiency in computer usage, including Google Office applications is highly preferred. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Industry certification, trade school training, and/or degree in related fields. 
• Direct experience with cryogenic fluid systems, avionics integration, and aerospace launch vehicle or spacecraft assembly. 
• Knowledge of precision assembly processes, especially for large aerospace components. 
• Strong technical and leadership skills with attention to detail, especially when leading teams on complex integration tasks. 
• Effective communication and collaboration skills in cross-functional teams.
• Continuous improvement mindset and curiosity for optimizing processes. 
• Experience with payloads, fairings, capsules, and operation of industrial power vehicles (e.g., forklift, scissor lift, boom lift). 
• Willingness to work extended times as needed.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS

Hubble is required by the U.S. Government to comply with various space technology export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).  All applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (“green card holders”) as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15). More information on ITAR can be found here.

Hubble is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. Each individual has the right to work in a professional environment that promotes equal employment opportunity and prohibits discriminatory practices, including harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.