Manufacturing Engineer I - Solar

Pace Industries, LLC; Broomfield (CO); On-site; USD 73,000 - 101,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision plans

401(k) with 150% match up to 6%

Life insurance

3 weeks paid time off

Job summary

Sierra Space in Colorado is seeking an entry-level Manufacturing Engineer I to support the development and improvement of solar array and photovoltaic assembly processes for space platforms serving national security and commercial missions.

You will assist with production line setup, process troubleshooting, cross-functional collaboration, and documentation, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge space power products and a clear path for growth in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Qualifications

• Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• Typically entry-level 0-2 years of experience.
• Working knowledge in CAD 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.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design, development, and optimization of solar array manufacturing processes.
• Support solar panel production line setup and troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve manufacturing issues.
• Contribute to process documentation and standardization.
• Utilize CAD software to create and modify designs for tooling, fixtures, and equipment.
• Conduct equipment troubleshooting and repair to reduce downtime.
• Analyze production and yield data to identify trends and root causes.
• Participate in Lean/Six Sigma initiatives to improve efficiency, throughput, and quality.
• Support handling of sensitive materials per safety protocols.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Analytical skills

Teamwork

Communication

CAD software

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

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.

About the Role

The Manufacturing Engineer I supports the development and improvement of manufacturing processes for solar arrays and photovoltaic assemblies used on satellite and spacecraft platforms serving national security and commercial missions. This entry‑level role assists with production line setup, process troubleshooting, cross‑functional collaboration, and continuous improvement initiatives specific to solar cell/panel assembly, lamination, and integration processes. It requires a foundational understanding of manufacturing principles, electro‑mechanical assembly, and strong problem‑solving skills. This role offers hands‑on experience with cutting‑edge space power 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 solar array manufacturing processes, including power module fabrication and substrate bonding, to ensure operational excellence.
• Support solar panel production line setup and troubleshooting to maintain smooth operations and minimize disruptions.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (design, quality, materials, and test engineering) to identify and resolve manufacturing issues affecting solar hardware yield and reliability.
• Contribute to process documentation and standardization (work instructions, travelers, and inspection criteria) to ensure consistency and quality across solar production builds.
• Utilize CAD software to create and modify designs for manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and equipment supporting solar panel assembly.
• Conduct equipment troubleshooting and repair on solar manufacturing equipment (e.g. SMT line, panel bonding stations) to reduce downtime and maintain productivity.
• Analyze production and yield data to identify trends, defects, and root causes, and recommend process improvements.
• Actively participate in continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma) initiatives to enhance solar manufacturing efficiency, throughput, and quality.
• Support handling and processing of sensitive solar cell materials in accordance with ESD, contamination control, and safety protocols.

Minimum 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.

Compensation

Pay Range: $73,231.00 - $100,714.00

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on job‑related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

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

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.

• medical, dental, and vision plans
• 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%
• life insurance
• 3 weeks paid time off
• and more

Application Deadline

This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities.

About Sierra Space

Headquartered in Colorado, Sierra Space is a mission‑proven Defense Tech company delivering satellite platforms, critical subsystems, reusable spaceplanes, hypersonic technologies, propulsion systems, and infrastructure for the nation’s most critical missions. With more than three decades of heritage and a record of flight‑proven success in space, Sierra Space is trusted by U.S. National Security, Civil customers, and global allies. Our technologies safeguard our nation, sustain human exploration in space, and ensure the freedom of operations beyond Earth. Sierra Space is defining the new era of Space Defense, strengthening deterrence today and preserving freedom of action for generations to come.