Manager, Mechanical Engineering

Sierra Space
life insurance, paid time off, 401(k)
United States, Wisconsin, Madison
Jul 17, 2026
Sierra Space Careers: At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth. Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond. Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space. We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team. About the Role About You Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower - to join us in this critical mission. We're looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals - while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement. The Manager, Mechanical Engineering will lead a team of mechanical engineers responsible for the design, development, and implementation of pressure control and thermal management hardware and systems. This role requires a strong technical foundation combined with leadership skills to drive innovation and operational excellence. The successful candidate will oversee mechanical design efforts from concept to implementation while ensuring adherence to industry standards, managing resources effectively, fostering cross-functional collaboration and mentoring and developing engineering talent. This position plays a critical role in optimizing mechanical system performance, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness while upholding company values and promoting a culture of continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities The Manager, Mechanical Engineering will supervise mechanical design efforts throughout the entire product development lifecycle, applying expertise in mechanical design, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and systems engineering concepts to overcome complex engineering challenges. They will translate functional engineering plans into operational initiatives that optimize system performance while identifying and mitigating technical risks in complex mechanical systems. The role involves implementing compliance protocols for mechanical components according to industry standards (ASME, MIL, NASA, AIAA, ISO) and regulatory requirements. The manager will guide team members in the appropriate application of mechanical design software, product life management and calculation tools while developing and implementing verification strategies to ensure product reliability and performance. Financial responsibilities include supporting bid and proposal budget estimations and managing resource allocation effectively. The successful candidate will support organizational changes to improve efficiency in mechanical engineering processes and strengthen cross-functional collaboration while effectively communicating engineering concepts and project status to various stakeholders. Above all, they will foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within their team while modeling company values. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree) 5+ years of relevant mechanical engineering experience with at least 3 years in a team leadership role Demonstrated ability to apply mechanical design, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and systems engineering concepts to product development Experience leading mechanical design efforts from concept through implementation Knowledge of mechanical engineering industry standards (ASME, MIL, NASA, AIAA, ISO) and regulatory requirements Proficiency with mechanical design software, product life management and calculation tools (Siemens NX, Teamcenter, Microsoft Excel) Experience developing and implementing requirement verification strategies Understanding of resource allocation concepts and strategies Excellent communication and presentation skills Preferred Qualifications 10+ years of mechanical engineering experience with 5+ years in leadership roles Advanced expertise in pressure control and thermal management hardware design process, methods and tools Experience with material selection, design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles Track record of implementing process improvements that enhance engineering efficiency Experience managing cross-functional teams in a matrix organization Demonstrated success in mentoring and developing engineering talent Experience with artificial intelligence (AI) methodologies Compensation: Pay Range: $132,328.00 - $181,950.25 Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education,experience, internal equity and market competitiveness. Elevate Your Career At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations. We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more. Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration. Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified. Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees. Sierra Space Corporationis an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment withSierra Spaceor at any stage of the recruitment process, pleasecontact us.