Manufacturing Engineer – Supplier Development, Optics & Optomechanical Systems (Starlink)
Core
Building and scaling a highly technical supply base for free-space optical communication systems used in Starlink satellites and ground stations.
Role type
Supplier Development Engineer (Optics & Optomechanical Systems)
Builds
Mechanical hardware and precision optomechanical systems for satellite laser communication
Domain
Aerospace / Optics & Photonics / Supply Chain
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
Supplier quality systems assessment, root cause analysis, PPAP implementation, supplier compliance definition, cost reduction negotiation, manufacturing process improvement, metrology knowledge, precision mechanical design understanding
Preferred skills
Master's degree in optics/engineering/business/supply chain, Six Sigma/DOE knowledge, lean production concepts, project ownership, stakeholder influence
Technologies
Optical communication systems, laser technology, precision mechanical design, metrology tools
Responsibilities
Improve quality, cost, delivery, and capacity metrics for mechanical hardware; Collaborate with design and manufacturing engineers on part and sub-system design intent; Drive design for manufacturing feedback; Strategically source parts by assessing supplier competencies; Define supplier technical and quality requirements; Lead resolution of supplier quality issues; Implement and monitor production part approval process (PPAP); Analyze supplier metrics to drive improvement plans; Conduct independent research to identify new suppliers; Manage mission-critical supply chain relationships
Seniority
Mid-level IC (2+ years experience)