Senior Engineering Manager, Manufacturing

📋 Description

• • As a Senior Engineering Manager, Manufacturing at Planet Labs PBC, you will be at the forefront of developing and executing the assembly, integration, and testing processes for our cutting-edge satellite constellation. This pivotal role demands a blend of strong manufacturing engineering expertise and exceptional leadership to shape the future of our satellite production.
• • You will be instrumental in establishing comprehensive manufacturing processes, meticulously developing and implementing detailed procedures and work instructions for the assembly and testing of critical subassemblies, modules, and complete spacecraft. Your contributions will directly impact the quality and efficiency of our satellite builds, ensuring we meet the demands of our growing constellation.
• • This position offers a unique opportunity to manage a team of skilled engineering and technician personnel, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment. You will work hand-in-hand with design engineers, test engineers, engineering program management, and supply chain teams, ensuring seamless execution and timely delivery of our spacecraft.
• • The ideal candidate thrives on a methodical, detail-oriented approach to problem-solving while also excelling at guiding, mentoring, and developing team members. You will be a key player in transforming our manufacturing line from an R&D-focused operation to a robust production environment, capable of scaling from prototype to flight-ready builds.
• • Your responsibilities will encompass the full spectrum of manufacturing management, including overseeing facilities and capital equipment development to support increased production demands. You will collaborate closely with Supply Chain to develop and manage production schedules, ensuring the efficient flow of materials and components.
• • Daily task planning and execution will be critical to ensure the on-time assembly, testing, and delivery of fully functioning satellites, particularly during the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase. You will be empowered to drive non-conformances to swift and effective resolutions, establishing actionable process improvements to prevent recurrence and enhance overall manufacturing quality.
• • A significant aspect of this role involves close collaboration with design engineering teams to champion Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles. You will provide valuable feedback and recommendations, ideally including specific CAD-driven insights, to optimize spacecraft designs for efficient and reliable production.
• • You will play a crucial role in developing and executing a technology transfer process, ensuring a smooth transition from the NPI phase to the Sustaining Production Team, thereby embedding best practices and lessons learned into ongoing operations.
• • This role is based in our Berlin office, requiring a full-time, in-office presence five days a week, fostering a strong team dynamic and facilitating hands-on oversight of manufacturing operations.
• • By joining Planet, you will be part of a mission-driven organization that uses space to help life on Earth, contributing to a global dataset that empowers commercial, environmental, and humanitarian sectors. You will be part of an inspiring mix of experts from diverse domains, working in a people-centric culture that prioritizes team member growth and company expansion.
• • We encourage candidates who are passionate about space technology and manufacturing excellence to apply, even if they don't meet every single qualification. Planet values well-rounded individuals who can contribute to our mission in multifaceted ways and are motivated by our humanitarian efforts.