Solar Array Manufacturing Development Engineer

Job description

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 ROLE Apex is seeking a Solar Array Manufacturing Development Engineer to lead the development and scaling of manufacturing processes for spacecraft solar array assemblies. This role will focus on establishing efficient, repeatable production processes for solar array hardware, from initial builds through full-rate manufacturing. You'll work directly with design engineering, technicians, and production leadership to develop tooling, optimize assembly methods, and improve manufacturing yield and throughput. We're looking for an engineer who enjoys being on the production floor, solving hardware challenges, and building manufacturing capabilities from the ground up. Responsibilities: - Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for spacecraft solar array assemblies and subassemblies. - Support solar cell integration, stringing, interconnects, bonding, layup, and panel assembly processes. - Own manufacturing process development from prototype builds through production ramp. - Design and implement production tooling, assembly fixtures, and manufacturing equipment. - Develop standardized work instructions, process specifications, and inspection procedures. - Collaborate with design engineering to improve solar array manufacturability, reliability, and assembly efficiency. - Identify and resolve production challenges related to bonding, electrical connections, materials, and mechanical integration. - Develop process controls and quality verification methods to ensure consistent hardware performance. - Support electrical, mechanical, and environmental testing of solar array assemblies. - Drive improvements in manufacturing cycle time, first-pass yield, production capacity, and overall process reliability. - Support production line layout, equipment selection, workflow optimization, and manufacturing readiness. Basic Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field. - 3+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process development, or hardware production. - Experience developing and improving manufacturing processes for complex electromechanical assemblies. - Hands-on experience with assembly tooling, fixtures, manufacturing equipment, and production troubleshooting. - Understanding of manufacturing process validation, quality control, and production documentation. - Experience collaborating with design engineering and production teams to transition hardware into manufacturing. Preferred Qualifications: - Experience manufacturing spacecraft solar arrays, photovoltaic modules, or similar high-reliability electrical assemblies. - Familiarity with solar cell stringing, soldering, welding, bonding, encapsulation, and panel integration. - Experience with composite structures, adhesives, precision bonding, or thin-film materials. - Understanding of electrical testing, continuity testing, insulation resistance, and solar array performance verification. - Experience developing new production lines or scaling manufacturing capacity. - Knowledge of aerospace manufacturing standards, workmanship requirements, and environmental qualification testing. - Experience implementing automation or semi-automated manufacturing processes. WHY 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 that has raised more than $500M in 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 create - Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost - Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays - Competitive 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 travel - Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day - Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family - Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self - World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life - Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. A candidate's specific level and base pay are determined case by case and may vary with job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity. Beyond base salary, full-time hires are also eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options, along with medical, dental, and vision coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan. ITAR REQUIREMENTS Apex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To be eligible for this role, applicants must either (1) qualify as a U.S. Person, meaning a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee admitted under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an individual granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or (2) be able to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Commerce, or another applicable U.S. government agency. You can learn more about ITAR here https://www.pmddtc.state.gov/?id=ddtc_kb_article_page&sys_id=24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, 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.