Principal Manufacturing Engineer – Lead Advanced Space Hardware Operations!

Camarillo, CA | Onsite

Opportunity Summary

We are seeking a seasoned Manufacturing Engineering leader to guide a growing operations team in delivering next-generation RF and microwave hardware for satellite and aerospace applications. This position blends technical leadership with strategic oversight, offering the opportunity to influence processes, mentor engineers, and ensure successful production of mission-critical systems. In this role, you’ll collaborate with executive leadership to refine processes, expand into new markets, and ensure manufacturing excellence across multiple programs. With a strong mix of hands-on engineering and high-level operational strategy, you’ll play a key role in shaping the company’s production capabilities while guiding engineers who are solving some of the toughest challenges in advanced electronics manufacturing.

About Us

We are a mid-sized, California-based technology company developing high-reliability RF and electronic hardware for space and defense customers. All design, qualification, manufacturing, and testing are performed in-house, giving our teams full ownership from concept through delivery. With a portfolio spanning complex aerospace and satellite programs, we are scaling rapidly and looking for leaders who thrive at the intersection of technology, operations, and execution.

Job Duties

• Partner with the VP of Operations to define and implement a vision for the Manufacturing Engineering team aligned with company goals.
• Lead process improvements, expanding capabilities for new markets while ensuring manufacturability standards are maintained.
• Oversee performance and development of manufacturing engineers; mentor staff to elevate technical and leadership skills.
• Drive scheduling and resource allocation to achieve on-time delivery across multiple programs.
• Provide clear visibility of team progress, challenges, and results at the executive level.
• Establish and enforce budgets, work plans, schedules, and performance requirements.
• Set direction for complex problem-solving in manufacturing engineering; resolve high-impact issues directly when necessary.
• Represent manufacturing engineering in customer interactions during proposal, build, and test phases.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace quality standards and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, with a background in RF/microwave hardware strongly preferred.
• Hands-on knowledge of chip & wire, thin-film, hermetic assembly, and printed circuit assembly processes.
• Proven track record of leadership in manufacturing or operations roles, including team development and mentoring.
• Strong understanding of AS9100 quality systems and aerospace standards.
• Experience supporting structural and thermal analyses in manufacturing environments.
• Demonstrated ability to influence stakeholders and gain alignment in sensitive or high-stakes situations.
• Familiarity with military or satellite hardware requirements and specifications is a plus.

Why Join Us

• Leadership role with direct impact on the growth of advanced manufacturing operations.
• Work on cutting-edge RF and aerospace hardware in a dynamic, growing company.
• Equity options and competitive benefits package.
• Flexible 9/80 work schedule supporting work-life balance.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Strong PTO policy and paid holidays.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Collaborative environment where engineering and operations teams work closely from concept through delivery.

Compensation Details

$145,000 - $190,000

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