Spacecraft Build Engineer

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.We'd love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. About the RoleApex is looking for a Spacecraft Build Engineer to develop and scale the manufacturing processes, tooling, and production systems that enable high-rate spacecraft builds. This role sits at the intersection of design and production, with ownership over how hardware is built, integrated, and transitioned into production. You'll work across propulsion, avionics, and structural systems to drive manufacturability, yield, and rate.Responsibilities: Own the development and qualification of manufacturing processes for spacecraft components and assembliesDesign and implement precision tooling and fixtures to improve quality, repeatability, and cycle timeDrive high-rate production by optimizing processes, reducing takt time, and increasing throughputDevelop and automate manufacturing and inspection processes to improve yield and consistencyLead the transition of hardware from development into production environmentsPartner closely with design engineering to drive design for manufacturability (DFM) and influence vehicle architectureTroubleshoot manufacturing and integration issues, performing root cause analysis and driving corrective actionsSimplify requirements and processes to reduce complexity, cost, and build timeSupport production scaling, factory layout, and manufacturing system developmentRequirements:Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing, materials, or related engineering field3+ years of experience in manufacturing, production, or process engineering for complex hardware systemsExperience with manufacturing process development and high-rate production environmentsStrong understanding of manufacturing techniques (welding, machining, forming, fastening, bonding, etc.)Experience with tooling and fixture design using CAD (SolidWorks, NX, or similar)Experience with design for manufacturability (DFM/DFMA)Hands-on experience with assembly, integration, or testing of mechanical or aerospace systemsAbility to troubleshoot and resolve production issues in fast-paced environmentsStrong ownership mindset with ability to drive cross-functional executionNice to have:Master's degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing, or related fieldExperience with high-rate or mixed-product manufacturing linesExperience with weld process development and inspection (including automation)Experience with propulsion, avionics, or structural system integration and testingExperience with process automation, robotics, or controlsExperience using data systems (SQL or similar) to track performance and drive improvementsExperience with failure analysis, PFMEA, or production system optimizationHands-on experience working directly with technicians on hardware buildsWhy Join Apex?Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series D funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.What We Offer For Full-time Employees:Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you createBest-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no costComprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidaysCompetitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travelDaily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the dayVibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your familyYour dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive selfWorld-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and lifeReal impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting differenceReady to join