Senior Payload Manufacturing Engineer — Space Systems

Varda Space Industries; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 179,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Relocation support

401(k) match

Wellness stipend

Job summary

Varda Space Industries in El Segundo, CA is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer- Payloads to own the production and integration of mission-critical payload systems including pharmaceutical processing hardware and microgravity modules.

You will translate design requirements into production processes, write detailed work instructions, and work hands-on with technicians to ensure quality, cleanliness, and on-time delivery. Strong collaboration with multiple teams is essential.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical, Biomedical Engineering, or related discipline; typically 3–6+ years of experience
• 3+ years of experience manufacturing or integrating complex assemblies in aerospace, defense, biomedical, or research environments
• Experience building precision hardware to tight tolerances and exacting cleanliness requirements
• Ability to read engineering drawings, ICDs, and assembly models; GD&T familiarity
• Experience developing and executing assembly procedures and acceptance test plans
• Strong written and verbal communication; interface with customers and internal teams

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end manufacturing and assembly processes for payload systems
• Develop and maintain detailed work instructions, travelers, and test procedures
• Serve as primary manufacturing interface for payload customers
• Implement contamination control and cleanliness protocols for sensitive hardware
• Collaborate with design engineers on DFM/ DFA feedback
• Define and execute payload acceptance testing and build records
• Lead root cause analysis and MRB dispositions
• Coordinate payload integration milestones with vehicle teams

Skills

Payload manufacturing

DFM/ DFA feedback

Cleanroom practices

GDT/GD&T reading

Technical communication

Education

B.S. in Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering

Job description

Varda Space Industries in El Segundo, CA is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer- Payloads to own the production and integration of mission-critical payload systems including pharmaceutical processing hardware and microgravity modules.

You will translate design requirements into production processes, write detailed work instructions, and work hands-on with technicians to ensure quality, cleanliness, and on-time delivery. Strong collaboration with multiple teams is essential.