Manufacturing Engineer I/II (2 Openings)

Your Mission

The Manufacturing Engineer develops and improves the processes, tooling, documentation, and production systems required to build LEAP's Bullfrog and Bighorn launch vehicles. This role works directly with technicians, designers, and test engineers to ensure flight hardware is built safely, efficiently, and in accordance with quality and configuration requirements.

Core Responsibilities

• Translate engineering intent and drawings into flight-ready hardware through the creation and maintenance of manufacturing bills of materials (MBOMs), work instructions, and production documentation
• Identify, procure, and implement tools, fixtures, and equipment required for manufacturing and assembly operations
• Provide hands-on manufacturing support on the production floor, partnering closely with technicians and engineering teams
• Generate, manage, and close Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs)
• Support new product introduction by developing manufacturing plans, build schedules, duration estimates, index plans, and tooling requirements
• Drive the transition from development to production, proactively identifying opportunities to improve manufacturability, efficiency, quality, and throughput
• Support troubleshooting, root-cause investigations, corrective actions, and process improvements across manufacturing operations
• Ensure compliance with configuration control, quality standards, and production requirements

What You Bring to the Team

• B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field
• Experience building and testing aerospace, defense, launch vehicle, spacecraft, or similarly complex hardware
• Manufacturing Engineer I candidates may qualify through internships, university research, or hands-on engineering project experience
• Manufacturing Engineer II candidates typically possess 2+ years of professional industry experience
• Understanding of mechanical design and manufacturing fundamentals, including GD&T
• Strong technical communication and documentation skills
• Proficiency with common engineering and business software tools, including CAD, issue-tracking systems, Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Ability to manage manufacturing bills of materials (MBOMs), author work instructions, and disposition non-conforming material in a production environment

Preferred Experience

• Experience in one or more of the following:
• Cryogenic turbomachinery or valve manufacturing
• Precision structural assembly and alignment, including metrology systems
• Fastener systems and torque control
• Tubing installation and fluid system routing
• Avionics manufacturing, installation, and vehicle-level integration
• Liquid propulsion systems
• Vehicle integration and production checkout operations

Bonus Points

• Experience supporting the design, development, testing, or production of launch vehicles, spacecraft, satellites, or other flight hardware
• Proficiency with CAD and manufacturing execution software such as Siemens NX and SAP
• Experience in high-mix, low-volume aerospace production environments
• Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems and aerospace configuration control process

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to: Work regularly in a manufacturing and production environment
• Stand, walk, and move throughout the production floor for extended periods
• Lift and carry up to 25 pounds
• Work around pressurized systems, cryogenic systems, and flight hardware while following established safety procedures

Salary Range

The estimated salary range for this role reflects a variety of compensation factors. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, education, qualifications, and business needs.

In addition, LEAP provides a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, including:

• Equity Program: As an early team member, LEAP's equity program provides the opportunity to share in the company's long-term success
• 401(k) with Company Match: Competitive retirement benefits to help you plan for the future
• Professional Development: Annual support for continued learning, training, and career growth
• Flexible Time Off: PTO as needed, paid holidays, two company-wide winter shutdown weeks, and paid family and medical leave benefits
• Hybrid Work Environment: Work arrangements are determined in partnership with your team and manager based on role requirements
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health coverage at minimal to no cost for employees, with dependent coverage options available
• Insurance Benefits: Company-paid basic life and long-term disability insurance, with additional voluntary coverage options available

About LEAP

LEAP is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Our team brings together exceptionally talented individuals who are pushing the boundaries of space access and logistics. We provide equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with legal requirements. We actively encourage applications from minorities, women, Veterans, and individuals with disabilities. If you're excited about making a meaningful impact on the future of space logistics, we'd love to hear from you.