Payload Manufacturing Engineer II — Space Hardware

Varda Space; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 173,000; Full time

Job summary

Varda Space seeks a Manufacturing Engineer II (Payloads) to own the production and integration of mission-critical payload systems. You will translate design requirements into production-ready assembly instructions and work hands-on with technicians to ensure payloads are built and verified to the highest standards of quality and cleanliness.

You will collaborate with external payload customers, internal design teams, and the vehicle integration team to align readiness gates with the build

Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical, Biomedical Engineering or related field (1–3+ years).
• 1+ years experience manufacturing or integrating complex assemblies.
• Experience building precision hardware to tight tolerances and cleanliness.
• Ability to read drawings, ICDs, GD&T and manage interfaces.
• Experience developing assembly procedures and test plans.
• Strong communication; interface with customers and teams.
• Physically able to lift 25 lbs and stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end manufacturing and assembly processes for payload systems.
• Develop and maintain detailed work instructions, process specs, and test procedures.
• Act as primary manufacturing interface for payload customers translating requirements.
• Implement contamination control, cleanliness, and handling protocols for payload hardware.
• Collaborate with design engineers to provide DFM/ DFA feedback.
• Define and execute payload acceptance testing and build records.
• Lead root cause analysis and coordinate MRB dispositions.
• Coordinate payload integration milestones with vehicle team.

Skills

Engineering drawing reading

GD&T

Documentation and procedures

Communication skills

Hands-on with flight hardware

Problem solving

Education

B.S. in Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering

MS degree (preferred)

Tools

ICD management

Job description

Varda Space seeks a Manufacturing Engineer II (Payloads) to own the production and integration of mission-critical payload systems. You will translate design requirements into production-ready assembly instructions and work hands-on with technicians to ensure payloads are built and verified to the highest standards of quality and cleanliness.

You will collaborate with external payload customers, internal design teams, and the vehicle integration team to align readiness gates with the build