Optical Precision Manufacturing Manager
TLDR
Lead a team in high-precision optics production with robust, scalable processes and consistent quality at scale.
About Us
Observable Space is a venture-backed aerospace and optics company developing advanced observation systems for government, commercial, and research applications. Formed through the merger of PlaneWave Instruments and OurSky, the company brings together proven precision hardware with next-generation platform capabilities.
We are a scaling organization grounded in engineering excellence, focused on delivering high-performance products while continuously advancing our manufacturing capabilities.
The Role
Observable Space is seeking a Precision Manufacturing Manager to lead its optics production function. While deep optics expertise is not required, this role demands strong leadership in high-precision manufacturing environments and a demonstrated ability to deliver consistent, high-quality output at scale.
Optics are fundamental to overall system performance. This role is critical in ensuring that production processes are robust, repeatable, and capable of meeting rigorous quality and delivery standards. The position carries full responsibility for production execution, quality outcomes, and team development within the optics area, and offers the opportunity to contribute to some of the most advanced precision manufacturing and metrology processes in the industry.
Key Responsibilities
Provide leadership and development for a team of technicians and operators within the optics function
Drive production performance to meet schedule, yield, and quality objectives
Establish and optimize scalable, repeatable manufacturing processes
Reduce variability, scrap, and rework through disciplined process control
Strengthen documentation, standards, and operational rigor
Partner cross-functionally with engineering, assembly, and coating teams
Lead structured problem-solving and root cause analysis efforts
Ensure safe, organized, and high-performing production environments
Qualifications
5+ years of experience in precision manufacturing environments (e.g., aerospace, medical devices, machining)
Demonstrated success leading teams in a production setting
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
Track record of driving process improvements and measurable operational results
Intellectual curiosity and a first-principles approach to solving complex challenges
Preferred but not required:
Exposure to optics, metrology, or high-precision surface manufacturing
Experience with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies
Job Type: Full-time
Work Location: In person
Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Vision insurance
Health savings account
Flexible spending account
Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Benefits
Health Insurance
Flexible spending account
Paid Time Off
Observable Space is a full-stack space technology company that creates vertically integrated hardware and software solutions for a variety of customers, from government to educational institutions. With innovations in laser communications and ground-based optical sensing, we're enabling real-time observations of space, making our products essential for all sectors of the space industry, including commercial, science, and enthusiasts.