Director of Operations Engineering

Overview

• As our Operations Engineering Director, you will create an engineering organization responsible for the build, test, and launch of LEAP’s suborbital and orbital class vehicles. You will establish standards of engineering for LEAP’s Materials and Processes, Manufacturing Engineering, Test & Launch, and Ground Support Equipment engineering teams and be responsible for allocating resources accordingly to best hit schedule, quality, and budget objectives.

Impacts & Outcomes Core Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end operations engineering execution from initial hardware build through flight, ensuring manufacturing, test, and launch activities are aligned, repeatable, and capable of delivering safe, flight-worthy outcomes on schedule and within budget
• Establish scalable engineering standards across Materials & Processes, Manufacturing Engineering, Test & Launch, and Ground Support Equipment, enabling consistent execution as vehicles progress from prototype to operational cadence
• Translate vehicle design requirements into manufacturable, testable, and operable systems, reducing late-stage rework and ensuring engineering intent is realized reliably on the factory floor and at the launch site
• Partner closely with Vehicle, Propulsion, Avionics, and Systems Engineering to integrate operational realities early in the design lifecycle, improving first-pass success and reducing technical and schedule risk
• Drive design for manufacturability, testability, operability, and safety across vehicle systems, resulting in improved build quality, predictable test outcomes, and safe launch operations
• Allocate engineering resources strategically across programs, facilities, and development phases to meet aggressive schedules while maintaining quality and safety standards
• Lead and scale multidisciplinary operations engineering teams to support increasing build rates, test tempo, and launch cadence without compromising execution discipline
• Build a culture of accountability, technical rigor, and continuous improvement across operations engineering, strengthening LEAP’s ability to transition from development to sustained operations

What You Bring to the Team

• A proven background in engineering and engineering leadership
• 12 years of experience in aerospace engineering with significant exposure to manufacturing, test, and flight operations.
• 5 years leading multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Direct experience with liquid propulsion systems and/or launch vehicle hardware strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, test & launch infrastructure, and ground systems.

Bonus Points

• Experience at a launch vehicle or spacecraft manufacturer (Required - Orbital class preferred).
• Experience supporting static fire testing and launch operations. (Required)
• Familiarity with FAA, range safety, and environmental compliance interfaces. (Required)
• Track record of scaling operations from prototype to production. (Required)
• Background in early-stage or high-growth aerospace startups.

Compensation

• Salary Range: $170,000 - $190,000

The estimated salary range for this role reflects various compensation factors. The final offer depends on factors such as work experience, education, training, key skills, and business needs.

In addition, LEAP provides a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, which includes:

• Equity Program: Equity plan participation is available to all employees following an initial 90-day employment period and is performance-based. Equity allocations are determined on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed. Managers may make recommendations based on individual and team performance. All equity grants are subject to executive review and approval in accordance with the Company’s equity plan.
• Retirement Planning: Save for the future with a 401(k) plan that includes competitive company matching.
• Growth Opportunities: Take advantage of a professional development stipend to advance your skills and expertise.
• Flexible Time Off: We encourage taking time off when you need it. Our policy includes unlimited PTO, generous holiday breaks, two week-long company winter shutdowns, and paid leave for family care, parental bonding, or personal health needs.
• Remote Work Flexibility: Our team operates on a hybrid model. We expect you to work with your team for specific details on work location.
• Health Benefits: LEAP provides comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage at minimal to no cost for employees. Coverage for dependents and HSA are also available.
• Insurance Coverage: We cover basic life and long-term disability insurance, with options to add extra coverage to ensure peace of mind for you and your family.

LEAP is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace in Colorado. Our team brings together exceptionally talented and diverse individuals who are pushing the boundaries of space access and logistics. We welcome all qualified applicants and provide equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. This includes individuals with a criminal history, in compliance with applicable regulations. We actively encourage applications from minorities, women, Veterans, and people with disabilities. At LEAP, we strive to create a supportive and welcoming environment throughout the hiring process. If you’re excited about making a real-world impact in space technology, we want to hear from you!