Structural Manufacturing Engineer

Colorado, U.S.

Full-Time

$81,000 – $122,000 per year

TLDR

Owns processes to fabricate and assemble primary and secondary structures for lunar spacecraft, shaping manufacturing plans and enabling rapid assembly, integration, and test.

At ispace U.S., we’re not just going to the Moon—we’re redefining how we get there. Our missions push the boundaries of human and robotic exploration, driven by our belief: “Expand our Planet. Expand our Future.” By providing cost-effective lunar transportation, we are pioneering a future where space is within reach for scientific discovery, commercial ventures, and sustainable exploration. With locations in Japan, Luxembourg, and the United States, ispace is rapidly growing and leading the way in lunar exploration and development. Our U.S. branch is based in Englewood, Colorado, and focuses on high-capacity payload lunar landers designed to support future lunar missions. Our team is made up of innovators, problem-solvers, and visionaries committed to making space more accessible and fostering the next generation of space exploration. Let’s go to the Moon together! Our team is growing, and we are actively seeking talented individuals who share our passion for space. We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated Structures Manufacturing Engineer with a strong background in space vehicles. This encompasses an ownership for the processes and procedures to fabricate and assemble our primary and secondary structures. The Structures Manufacturing Engineer will play a critical role in the successful development and subsequent assembly , integration , and test of our lunar exploration spacecraft ensuring it meets the rigorous demands of our space missions. Key Responsibilities

Responsible for defining the build and inspection process for the assembly of all primary and secondary structures

Develop and refine manufacturing processes for these same structures

Document and standardize specialized processes while owning the creation and modification of manufacturing planning/work instructions

Collaborate with other engineers, subject matter experts, and technicians to solve production challenges

Work with design engineers to evaluate designs for manufacturability and implementation in a rapidly evolving production environment

Help manufacturing and engineering teams to identify, plan, and execute capital equipment, machine, and layout upgrades to meet on-time delivery efforts

Create 3D CAD models and drawings using SolidWorks.

Collaborate with analysis, manufacturing, and test engineers to optimize designs for manufacturability, performance, and cost-effectiveness.

Assist in defining structural interfaces, assembly processes, and integration procedures.

Ensure compliance with aerospace industry standards and mission-specific requirements.

Support design reviews and communicate technical solutions effectively within cross-functional teams.

Foster a collaborative and innovative culture, emphasizing excellence and continuous improvement in engineering best practices.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. We will consider a combination of education and related experience.

3 years minimum experience in structural manufacturing within the aerospace or space industry.

Experience in composite materials, metallic structures, and assembly/inspection methodologies.

Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, NX, SolidWorks) and PDM systems (e.g. PDM, Windchill, Teamcenter).

Familiarity with manufacturing processes for composites, including lay-up, curing, bonding, and machining.

Understanding of aerospace industry standards (NASA, FAA, DoD, ASME, MIL-STD).

Proficiency in Drawing Creation and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing per ASME Y14.5.

Excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and collaboration abilities.

Proficient in documentation practices.

Proven track record in designing and delivering structural components for space vehicles or aerospace applications.

What Makes You Stand Out!

Master’s in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.

Experience identifying and navigating the challenges of a startup environment.

Experience in lightweight structures and optimization techniques.

Hands-on experience with composite fabrication and testing.

Familiarity with design for additive manufacturing and emerging aerospace materials.

Knowledge of load paths, structural dynamics, fatigue analysis, and failure modes in spacecraft structures. (e.g. FEMAP, Sim center, Hyper mesh).

Familiarity with other spacecraft systems (RF communications, thermal, EPS, mechanisms) and their interaction with structures.

#LI-LH1

At ispace, we believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences, even if you don’t meet every listed requirement. If you’re passionate about our mission and think you can contribute, we encourage you to apply. Your unique skills and experiences may be exactly what we need to grow and succeed together.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR .here.  

ispace is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with ispace is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

All applicants who are offered employment with ispace US will be subject to a background investigation. Offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of a background investigation conducted in accordance with Company policies and all applicable laws.

ispace Technologies, US, Inc. is a drug-free workplace.

ispace Technologies, US, Inc. participates in the E-Verify program.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Competitive medical, vision, and dental plans, with 100% company-paid options available for employees.

Learning & development stipend

Ample opportunities to grow, including lunch-and-learns, skills training, and stipends for professional development.

Team culture events

A fun and casual environment with regular team gatherings, including monthly TGIF events to connect and unwind.

Paid Time Off

18 vacation days, 6 sick days, and 17 paid holidays.

Remote-Friendly

Flexibility to work remotely and in-office, depending on your role and the stage of our program.

Stock Options

Participation in our stock option program.

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ispace, inc.

ispace, inc. is a lunar exploration company that develops micro robotic technology to facilitate transportation and resource mapping in space. Targeting the growing market for lunar development, ispace aims to create a new ecosystem between Earth and the Moon, establishing itself as the first publicly listed space startup in Japan.

Founded: Founded 2013
Employees: 51-200 employees
Industry: Aerospace & Defense
Total raised: $170M raised

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Manufacturing Engineer