At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.
Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.
Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.
We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.
About the RoleThe Manufacturing Specialist I - Tooling role primarily creates build-related products and coordinates active builds while secondarily providing design/revision support for tooling. This role requires technical proficiency, innovation, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. This entry level role pioneers opportunities for long-term career growth in a dynamic industry, perfect for someone eager to make a meaningful impact with a diverse range of groundbreaking projects.About YouOur mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.
We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.
Key Responsibilities:
- Author & release build process plans
- Facilitate part readiness / Work Order (WO) creation / kitting for tooling builds
- Provide tooling build support; WO redlines, nonconformance dispositioning, facilitate build issues / questions from tech team.
- Provide tooling design support; quick turn shop aids & engineering revisions
- Set up, operate, and train the shop floor on critical manufacturing processes.
- Drive resolution of production issues while maintaining design intent, product quality, and schedule.
- Evaluate non-conforming products, drive resolution of issues, and implement corrective actions.
- Conduct process development experiments and provide design & process validations in tight timelines.
- Guarantee a smooth transition of products from the development phase to full-scale production.
- Discover opportunities for ongoing enhancements in yield, performance, and cost.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate and typically 2+ years of professional experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment; OR bachelor's degree in an engineering, math, or science discipline.
- Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and principles.
- Familiarity with safety protocols and quality standards in a manufacturing environment.
- Basic computer skills, including email and Microsoft Windows.
- Ability to follow detailed instructions and standard operating procedures.
- Basic problem-solving skills to identify and address minor production issues.
- Effective communication skills for reporting issues and collaborating with team members.
- Ability to learn and operate manufacturing equipment under supervision.
- Capability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
- Willingness to participate in training sessions and apply new knowledge to tasks.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Associate or bachelor's degree in an engineering, math, or science discipline.
- Experience designing & building shop aids, tools, and support materials for manufacturing operations.
- Experience with spaceflight hardware and controls.
- Strong ability to context switch and adapt to process variables efficiently.
- Ability to produce high-quality hardware within expedited timeframes.
- Proficient in computer skills, including email, Microsoft Windows, ERP/MRP/MES systems, iOS, and executing custom-developed software.
- Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, and a strong aptitude for teamwork.
- Proficiency in offering process and design improvement recommendations to engineering.
Compensation:
Pay Range:
$73,231.00 - $100,714.00Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:To conform to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant 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 or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Elevate Your CareerAt Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.
We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.
Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.
Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.
Skills Required
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate and typically 2+ years of professional experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment, or a bachelor's degree in engineering, math, or science
- Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and principles
- Familiarity with safety protocols and quality standards in a manufacturing environment
- Basic computer skills, including email and Microsoft Windows
- Ability to follow detailed instructions and standard operating procedures
- Basic problem-solving skills to identify and address minor production issues
- Effective communication skills for reporting issues and collaborating with team members
- Ability to learn and operate manufacturing equipment under supervision
- Capability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities
- Willingness to participate in training sessions and apply new knowledge to tasks
- Associate or bachelor's degree in engineering, math, or science
- Experience designing and building shop aids, tools, and support materials for manufacturing operations
- Experience with spaceflight hardware and controls
- Ability to context switch and adapt to process variables efficiently
- Ability to produce high-quality hardware within expedited timeframes
- Proficiency with email, Microsoft Windows, ERP/MRP/MES systems, iOS, and custom-developed software
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills and strong teamwork aptitude
- Ability to provide process and design improvement recommendations to engineering
What the Team is Saying
Sierra Space Compensation & Benefits Highlights
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Retirement Support — Retirement matching is described as a standout feature, with multiple listings citing a 150% match up to 6%–8% of pay. Feedback suggests confirming the current match formula and three-year vesting to understand the full value.
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Healthcare Strength — Medical coverage includes PPO and HDHP options alongside dental and vision, and is characterized as solid with reasonable access to care. Feedback suggests premiums and copays are often manageable for many roles.
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Affordable Benefits — Health-plan costs are often considered affordable, with several accounts noting reasonable premiums and copays. Feedback suggests this helps the package deliver practical day-to-day value beyond headline coverage.
Sierra Space Insights
What We Do
Securing The Freedom of Operations Headquartered in Colorado, Sierra Space is a mission-proven Defense Tech company delivering satellite platforms, critical subsystems, reusable spaceplanes, hypersonic technologies, propulsion systems, and infrastructure for the nation’s most critical missions. With more than three decades of heritage and a record of flight-proven success in space, Sierra Space is trusted by U.S. National Security, Civil customers, and global allies. Our technologies safeguard our nation, sustain human exploration in space, and ensure the freedom of operations beyond Earth. Sierra Space is defining the new era of Space Defense, strengthening deterrence today and preserving freedom of action for generations to come.
Why Work With Us
At Sierra Space, you’ll find a supportive, respectful and upbeat culture where your opinions matter and your personal contributions have impact. If you’re thinking about your own next frontier, we’d love to help you explore it.
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