Manager, Mechanical Hardware Design (Space Optical Systems)

Job Title: Manager, Mechanical Hardware Design (Space Optical Systems)

Job Code: 44562

Job Location: Fort Wayne, IN

Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off!)

Relocation: Relocation assistance is available to qualified applicants

Job Description:

We are seeking an Engineering Manager to lead a team of hardware designers developing cutting-edge mechanical solutions for space-based missions. In this role, you’ll guide the mechanical architecture and design of systems that directly support commercial weather forecasting, environmental monitoring, and national defense applications. Our technical managers would typically have a group of 15-18 direct reports and would be responsible for both functional management and technical design and execution.

If you’re energized by developing innovative hardware and contributing to mission-critical systems, this role offers both deep technical challenge and meaningful impact.

Essential Functions:

• Lead, mentor, and develop HW/mechanical designers, ensuring strong execution and career growth.
• Own mechanical architecture for new and existing products.
• Drive design reviews, enforce best practices, and ensure high-quality CAD and documentation.
• Collaborate closely with electrical, systems, manufacturing, and product teams.
• Oversee schedule commitments, risk mitigation, and resource planning.
• Ensure DFM, DFA, and reliability considerations are integrated throughout the design process.
• Coordinate with suppliers and oversee prototype builds and validation.
• Able to obtain a US security clearance

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering and a minimum of 9 years of prior relevant experience.  Graduate Degree in Engineering and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience.
• 5+ years professional experience with CAD tools (Creo, SolidWorks, etc.).
• Prior or current experience leading technical team execution (managing cost and schedule performance)

Preferred Additional Skills:

• Active US security clearance is preferred
• Background in aerospace/space design, development, and integration
• Experience with collaboration with cross-functional teams
• Experience managing teams of designers or engineers.
• Clear communication and ability to influence cross-functional teams.
• Successful delivery of hardware or mechanical designs into production.