Manufacturing Test Engineer

Wanna join the adventure?

Orbitworks is a cutting-edge satellite manufacturing startup based in the UAE. We are seeking a Manufacturing Test Engineer to support our growing test and integration efforts for our satellite systems. This role is critical in bridging the gap between systems test engineering and hands-on test execution, playing a vital role in ensuring quality, reliability, and performance of our satellite products.

About This Role:

• Translate test plan requirements provided by System Test Engineers into executable test scripts and procedures.
• Support installation and commissioning of test equipment and EGSE (Electrical Ground Support Equipment).
• Execute functional, electrical, and system-level tests on satellite subsystems and integrated systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve test failures, identifying issues at the equipment, script, or setup level.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and systems teams to ensure test coverage and accuracy.
• Maintain documentation of test procedures, results, and troubleshooting steps for traceability and compliance.
• Support continuous improvement of test methodologies, automation, and infrastructure.

Must Haves:

• Proven experience managing the full procurement lifecycle, ideally in a hardware, aerospace, or manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of ERP systems (NetSuite preferred), including hands-on use for procurement tasks and workflow improvement.
• Demonstrated supplier management skills, including negotiation, performance tracking, and issue resolution.
• Solid grasp of contractual terms, NDAs, Incoterms, and compliance standards relevant to procurement.
• Excellent collaboration skills with cross-functional teams including logistics, planning, finance, and legal.
• High level of ownership, responsiveness, and professionalism.
• Strong organizational and communication skills with attention to detail.
• Fluent in English; experience working in the UAE or Middle East region is a plus.

Nice to Haves:

• Previous space industry experience - working hands-on with satellite flight hardware.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a manufacturing, systems testing or electrical integration role, within the Space industry (not aerospace, aviation or defence).
• Hands-on experience with test equipment, scripting tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB), and satellite EGSE systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot technical issues across hardware, software, and test configurations.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills, with a focus on quality and traceability.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across multidisciplinary teams.
• Familiarity with configuration management and automated test systems.
• Understanding of system validation and verification processes.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, startup environment with minimal supervision.

Orbitworks' mission is to make space simple for organizations that want to deploy physical and virtual missions to space. Building on Loft Orbital's heritage, Orbitworks will be the first commercial firm in the United Arab Emirates to mass-manufacture satellites. Orbitworks aims to manufacture tens of satellites annually and operates out of a 50,000-square-foot facility in Abu Dhabi.