Manufacturing Engineer I
Sierra Space · Louisville, CO
- Level
- Engineer
- Team
- Manufacturing
- Base pay
- $73k–$101k
- Degree
- Required (or equivalent experience)
- Experience asked
- 2+ years
- Industry
- Aerospace & defense
- Posted
- 30+ days ago
The role in 30 seconds
An engineer-level manufacturing role at Sierra Space (aerospace & defense) in Louisville, CO. Assist in the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes to ensure operational excellence.
- They ask for
- 2+ years · degree required (or equivalent experience)
- Tools it names
- Lean, Six Sigma, AS9100, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, MES
- Base pay
- $73k–$101k
Read from the posting. The full description is below.
At a glance
Pulled from the posting text. If it's not listed here, the posting didn't say.
Your game plan for this job
Most people just hit Apply. Do these first and you show up with someone on the inside.
- 1
Find 2–3 people on the Manufacturing team at this site
Engineers who joined in the last year or two reply most.
- 2
Send a short, curious note
Ask about the work, not for a referral. We write it for you.
- 3
Have a 15-minute chat
Good questions for this role:
- What does a normal week look like on your team?
- Is the work mostly new product launches or sustaining existing lines?
- How much time do you spend on the floor versus at a desk?
- How did you land the job? What stood out in your interviews?
- 4
Apply, ideally with a referral
Ask if they'd refer you or introduce you to the hiring manager. Send your résumé link and tell them the day you apply.
- 5
Bring proof to the interview
One page of before-and-after numbers from projects you led: scrap, OEE, cycle time, cost. Plant managers hire on results.
About the role
About the Role
The Manufacturing Engineer I supports the development and improvement of manufacturing processes for satellite and spacecraft hardware serving national security and commercial missions. This entry-level role assists with production line setup, troubleshooting, cross-functional collaboration, and continuous improvement initiatives, requiring a foundational understanding of manufacturing principles and strong problem-solving skills. It offers hands-on experience with cutting-edge space products and a strong foundation for long-term growth in a fast-paced, mission-driven industry.
About You
Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.
We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum
qualifications
below. The
preferred qualifications
are a bonus, not a requirement.
Key Responsibilities
- ◆Assist in the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes to ensure operational excellence.
- ◆Support production line setup and troubleshooting to maintain smooth operations and minimize disruptions.
- ◆Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve manufacturing issues.
- ◆Contribute to process documentation and standardization to ensure consistency and quality.
- ◆Utilize CAD software to create and modify designs for manufacturing equipment and processes.
- ◆Conduct equipment troubleshooting and repair to reduce downtime and maintain productivity.
- ◆Analyze production data to identify trends and recommend improvements.
- ◆Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing efficiency and effectiveness.
Qualifications
- ✓Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree).
- ✓Typically entry-level 0 - 2 years of experience.
- ✓Basic understanding of manufacturing processes, systems, and engineering principles.
- ✓Working knowledge in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software.
- ✓Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- ✓Ability to assist in process documentation and standardization.
- ✓Ability to support production line setup and troubleshooting.
- ✓Familiarity with equipment troubleshooting and repair.
- ✓Good communication and teamwork skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- ✓Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
- ✓Proficiency in additional engineering software tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
- ✓Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- ✓Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
- ✓Proven track record in a space or aerospace manufacturing setting.
- ✓In-depth understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including structures, mechanisms, avionics, propulsion, and high-pressure systems.
- ✓Demonstrated ability to create and implement processes from the ground up, with strong communication skills to engage a diverse team.
- ✓Successful introduction of new aerospace hardware systems into manufacturing, testing, and production environments.
- ✓Experience in implementing AS9100 quality standards.
- ✓Proficiency in onboarding MES, PLM, and ERP systems.
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Sierra Space Careers
At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.
Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.
Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.
We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.
Pay Range
$73,231.00 - $100,714.00
Important notice
To conform to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Elevate Your Career
At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.
We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.
Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.
Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.