Assembly, Test and Launch Operations Manager

Join Our Mission to Revolutionize Space Logistics!

Explore every ocean in the solar system, collect and store the fluid, and sustain life in space.

At Space Ocean we’re a cutting-edge space startup on a mission to push the boundaries of exploration and innovation to supply resources for humanity’s expansion into space, targeting near-Earth orbit by 2027 and beyond, including Mars.

As we prepare to launch groundbreaking projects, we’re seeking an experienced space industry Assembly, Test and Launch Operations Manager to establish our integration and test team to assemble, test and launch the next-generation for satellite-based fluid transport spacecraft.

Role Overview

As a consulting Manager for Assembly, Test and Launch Operations (ATLO) you’ll be in charge of setting up the Assembly, Integration and Test team to build, test and launch the next generation of commercial spacecraft. These vehicles will include logistics transport modules and command service vehicles to support Earth/Moon operations and interplanetary flight operations. We are making science fiction into science fact, and in this role you will lead the team building and launching these vehicles. This role is essential in delivering high-quality, reliable hardware, ensuring adherence to all quality, safety and operational standards, while fostering a high-performance work culture focused on safety, quality and mission success. This is an opportunity to get in on the “ground floor” of the next big phase in human spaceflight exploration, and as the “tip of the spear” you will have the opportunity to contribute to real change in how humans explore space going forward. This position reports directly to the Director of Engineering

Key Responsibilities

• Payload and Space Vehicle Assembly: Leading the team for the assembly, integration and testing of the payloads, spacecraft bus, and all associated subsystems. Final integration of these items into the completed space vehicle, with all “shake and bake” testing including functional, vibration, acoustic, thermal, thermal vacuum, EMI/EMC and first motion/deployments, ensuring compliance with technical specifications, blueprints and procedures.
• Launch Operations: You will lead the team to work the transition from spacecraft build, pre-launch preparations and test to launch, including integration of the spacecraft with the launch booster, functional checkouts, and support during initial vehicle deployment on orbit, ensuring adherence to all quality, safety and operational standards.
• Establish a Dynamic Team: We have members of our team located all across the US, and you will manage this team as a functional manager for all of the I&T team, and leading the team offsite at the launch facilities. Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including engineering, program management and all internal and external customers.
• Develop and Manage Critical Infrastructure: Develop and implement the highbay and test facilities, processes and procedures needed for space build and test operations using current industry standards. Provide regular updates to leadership and resolve issues timely and effectively. You are starting from the ground floor, using best-of-industry practices and have the opportunity to set it up as you see fit. If you ever thought “I could do this better than what is being done now….” then this is your chance!
• Develop and Implement ATLO Strategy: In this role you will be working to steer the ship, not simply a passenger on the “space ocean”. Development of long term and short-term goals, along with identification of key tools & resources as needed will generate our corporate long-term growth.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure compliance with all established industry safety protocols, procedures and quality standards and all legal, regulatory and systems requirements. Identify opportunities for process improvement, innovation and best practices to enhance efficiency, safety and effectiveness.

What We’re Looking For - Required Qualifications

• Experienced Space Flight Industry ATLO Expertise, i.e. 10+ years in the assembly, integration and test of complex spacecraft including satellites, research probes, military, or commercial spacecraft, and sub-orbital vehicles within the spaceflight industry.
• Technical expertise with experience in space systems, satellites, and launch operations. If you have never worked in the space flight world this is not the job for you - if you can’t point up to the sky and say “I built that” in reference to a current space product then this is not the role for you.
• Proven track record in launch campaigns, either as a customer/payload on a launch booster or as part of the booster team handling the payload integration, encapsulation, and pre-launch operations.
• Must have prior experience in conducting design reviews including CDR, MRR, TRR, Pre-shipment, and at the launch site pre-launch reviews and decision-making process for approval to launch.
• Bachelors degree in engineering (Aerospace, Astronautical, Electrical, Mechanical)
• Leadership experience in fast-paced, ambiguous environments.
• Ability to travel 10-20%

Nice-to-Have - Preferred Qualifications

• Current or recent NASA standards skills expertise
• Experience establishing AI&T programs including tooling, GSE, contamination control, and testing for TVAC, vibration, acoustic, EMI/EMC and deployables with zero-g offloads
• Knowledge of space mission design and spaceflight systems
• Knowledge of mission assurance requirements including AS9100 as they pertain to ATLO
• Masters of Science or PhD in Engineering
• Ability to secure and maintain a security clearance
• Proactive! Looking for someone to be willing to initiate the conversation and be a self-starter.
• On-site experience at the East/West ranges (Vandenberg or KSC/CCAFS) or Boca Chica facility in south Texas including payload integration facilities and the launch pads

Why Join Us?
Equity stake in a high-growth startup.
Remote-friendly with flexible hours.
Cutting-edge tech: Work with advanced tools and platforms
Impact: Directly contribute to missions that redefine space sustainability.

Compensation:
Fractional ownership opportunity throughout the start-up phase. Transition to 1099 upon investor funding and contractual award.

Additional Information:
Candidates must be willing to undergo a background check and comply with US space regulations and security protocols.