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Tooling & GSE Manager - Spacecraft Programs

Rockville, MD

Overview
Quantum Space is seeking a Tooling & Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Manager / Lead Engineer to lead the design, development, deployment, and lifecycle management of tooling, fixtures, handling equipment, and ground support systems supporting spacecraft manufacturing, integration, test, and launch operations.

This role is ideal for a hands-on engineering leader who can build and scale a tooling organization while partnering closely with Manufacturing, AI&T, Test, Quality, Supply Chain, and Program Management teams. The successful candidate will own tooling strategy from concept through production deployment, ensuring safe, repeatable, and efficient spacecraft assembly and test operations.

Where You'll Make an Impact

Tooling & GSE Leadership

  • Lead the development and execution of the company's tooling and GSE roadmap.
  • Establish standards, processes, and best practices for tooling design, procurement, validation, and maintenance.
  • Build and mentor a high-performing team of tooling engineers, designers, and technicians.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, cost, and manufacturing efficiency.

Design & Development

  • Own the design and implementation of assembly fixtures, lifting devices, transport equipment, alignment tooling, checkout equipment, and specialized GSE.
  • Develop tooling concepts that support spacecraft manufacturing, integration, environmental testing, transportation, and launch site operations.
  • Define tooling requirements, interfaces, load cases, tolerances, and verification methods.
  • Perform engineering analyses including structural, ergonomic, safety, and manufacturability assessments.

Manufacturing & AI&T Support

  • Partner with Manufacturing and AI&T teams to identify tooling needs and production bottlenecks.
  • Develop scalable tooling solutions that improve throughput, repeatability, and operator efficiency.
  • Support spacecraft integration activities through hands-on troubleshooting and rapid tooling development.
  • Lead root-cause investigations related to tooling failures, process escapes, and production disruptions.

Program Execution

  • Manage tooling budgets, schedules, vendor relationships, and capital equipment investments.
  • Coordinate internal and external fabrication resources to deliver tooling on program timelines.
  • Establish tooling qualification and acceptance processes.
  • Ensure configuration control, documentation, and asset management throughout the tooling lifecycle.

Safety & Compliance

  • Ensure all tooling and GSE meet applicable safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
  • Develop operating procedures, maintenance plans, inspections, and training materials.
  • Support risk assessments and hazard analyses for manufacturing and test operations.

What It Takes

Required Qualifications

  • BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field.
  • 7+ years of experience developing tooling, fixtures, production equipment, or GSE in aerospace, defense, automotive, or advanced manufacturing environments.
  • Proven experience leading tooling projects from concept through deployment.
  • Strong mechanical design background using CAD systems such as Creo, NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks.
  • Experience with structural analysis, GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, and manufacturing processes.
  • Experience managing cross-functional engineering programs and technical teams.
  • Excellent communication and project management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience supporting spacecraft, launch vehicle, satellite, or aerospace manufacturing programs.
  • Knowledge of lifting and handling equipment design.
    Experience with environmental test support equipment (TVAC, vibration, acoustic, shock, etc.).
  • Familiarity with automation, robotics, or digitally connected manufacturing systems.
    Experience with rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, and advanced fabrication methods.
  • Experience establishing tooling organizations and processes in a high-growth environment.

What You'll Get

  • Ownership of the company's tooling and GSE strategy.
  • Opportunity to build critical infrastructure supporting next-generation spacecraft programs.
  • Leadership visibility across manufacturing, test, and engineering organizations.
  • Competitive compensation, equity, and comprehensive benefits.
  • Compensation: $130,000-$160,000

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