Terran Orbital

Manufacturing Engineer - Machine Shop

Terran Orbital$85K — $125K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
  • Two years of experience in Manufacturing Engineering, preferably in CNC machine shop settings.
  • Proficient in design software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks.
  • Knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, and aerospace manufacturing standards.
  • Experience with DFMEA/FMEA, SPC, and root cause analysis.
  • Strong analytical skills with problem-solving focus.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills for cross-discipline collaboration.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a high-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

  • Design and optimize manufacturing processes for satellite structures and components.
  • Assist in the development of custom tooling and fixtures for assembly operations.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams on drawing corrections and updates.
  • Provide on-site engineering support for real-time process and equipment troubleshooting.
  • Support the transition from product design to full-scale manufacturing.
  • Drive initiatives for continuous process improvement and production efficiency.
  • Partner with quality and supply chain teams for compliance with internal standards.
  • Represent engineering in program and production meetings, delivering updates to leadership.

Benefits

  • 100% Company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents.
  • 401(k) match to encourage retirement savings.
  • Flexible Time Off (FTO) policy for work-life balance.
  • Tuition reimbursement for continuing education.
  • Paid parental leave for new parents.
Full Job Description
Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Director, CNC Manufacturing, the Manufacturing Engineer will develop and implement optimal, cost-effective manufacturing processes and methods in accordance with product specifications and quality standards. This role will manage manufacturing related projects and coordinate activities with various stakeholders. This role will be supporting manufacturing issues on existing product designs and new satellite mechanisms early in the design phase and providing critical design for manufacturability input, while developing and implementing the plan to move from design/test into build/production. This role will play a key part in supporting and optimizing operations within our machine shop to ensure seamless production and high-quality output.

Key Duties and Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes and procedures for satellite structures, subassemblies, and components.
  • Assist with custom tooling, fixtures, and jigs to support efficient assembly and testing operations.
  • Work with Engineering to assist with redline drawings and drawing corrections.
  • Provide hands-on engineering support to the production floor, diagnosing and resolving process or equipment issues in real time.
  • Support product transition from design to full-scale manufacturing, collaborating across functional teams to ensure smooth ramp-up to production.
  • Drive continuous process improvement initiatives that enhance production efficiency, product reliability, and mission success.
  • Collaborate closely with Design Engineering to ensure product designs are optimized for manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and reliability, while adhering to ANSI and ISO standards.
  • Partner with Quality and Supply Chain teams to ensure compliance with internal quality standards.
  • Serve as the primary engineering representative in daily and weekly program and production meetings, providing technical updates and progress reports to leadership.
  • Investigate, analyze, and resolve manufacturing and test discrepancies, coordinating with Quality and Design teams to address issues in design, fabrication, and assembly.

Required Qualifications and Skills
  • Bachelor's Degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or other related technical degree.
  • Minimum two (2) years of experience in a Manufacturing Engineering function within a high reliability manufacturing environment, preferably in a CNC machine shop manufacturing environment.
  • Design software experience (AutoCAD or SolidWorks preferred)
  • In-depth knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, and other relevant aerospace manufacturing standards.
  • Experience with DFMEA/FMEA, SPC, and root cause analysis methodologies.
  • Able to work well in an integrated team including daily interactions with technicians, engineers, and managers
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on practical solutions.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across disciplines.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, high-mix production environment.
  • Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems (e.g., D365, Aegis).
  • Demonstrated proficiency in Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
  • U.S. Person or lawful permanent resident to comply with U.S. government space technology export regulations.


Your actual level and base salary will be determined case-by-case and may vary based on the job-related qualification, knowledge, skills, education, and experience. In addition to base salary, we offer 100% covered medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) match, Flexible Time Off (FTO), covered life insurance, maternity and paternity leave, tuition reimbursement, employee referrals, and lots of swag!

Salary Range

$85,000-$125,000 USD

Full-time positions only:

Benefits
  • 100% Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents
  • 401(k) Match
  • Flexible Time Off (FTO)
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Competitive Paid Parental Leave

Physical Demands

An employee must meet the physical demands described to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. In performing the duties of this job, the employee is routinely required to sit or stand for long durations of time, in addition to bending, reaching, and walking. This would require the ability to lift or move objects up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move objects up to 25 pounds. This position is generally sedentary, with substantial computer usage.

Work Environment

The job operates in a professional office environment but in a manufacturing company. This job routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and scanners.

About Terran Orbital

Terran Orbital is a leading manufacturer of small satellites and related components. The company's products are used for a variety of applications, including Earth observation, communications, and scientific research. Terran Orbital also provides launch services for its customers, using a variety of vehicles and platforms. The company is headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, and has additional facilities in California and Florida.
Learn more about Terran Orbital
Size
50 employees
Market Cap
$210.6 million
Industry
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Terran Orbital

More Aerospace & Defense Jobs

Find similar Manufacturing Engineer - Machine Shop jobs: