LEAP is transforming space logistics with rapid-response, mass producible launch solutions designed to eliminate bottlenecks in space access. Leveraging proprietary propulsion technology and modern manufacturing techniques, LEAP delivers scalable and cost-effective, launch solutions for national security, commercial payload deployment, and global point-to-point logistics applications.

Own Core Responsibilities

• Own the technical strategy for materials selection, material qualification, and manufacturing process development.
• Lead development and optimization of materials and processes to meet product performance, reliability, manufacturability, cost, and schedule requirements.
• Partner with Design Engineering to select materials and processes appropriate for product requirements and operating environments.
• Own material and process specifications, requirements, standards, design allowables and acceptance criteria.
• Lead material and process qualification, validation, and change-control activities.
• Lead root-cause investigations and failure analysis involving materials, manufacturing processes, and product performance.
• Provide technical leadership in resolving complex manufacturing and production issues.
• Develop and implement process controls to improve consistency, capability, yield, and reliability.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, R&D, and other engineering functions to resolve cross-functional technical challenges.
• Establish technical direction and provide mentorship to engineers and other technical personnel.

 

Produce Clear Deliverables

• The Lead Materials and Process Engineer is accountable for producing clear, technically sound, and actionable engineering outputs, including:
• Material selection and qualification plans.
• Material and process specifications.
• Produce design allowables supporting the manufacturing process development and optimization plans.
• Engineering test plans, procedures, and reports.
• Process qualification and validation documentation.
• Failure analysis and root-cause investigation reports.
• Design and process risk assessments.
• Process capability and statistical analysis.
• Manufacturing process requirements, controls, and acceptance criteria.
• Technical recommendations supported by data and analysis.

 

Impacts and Outcomes

The work of the Lead Materials and Process Engineer should result in measurable improvements across the product and manufacturing lifecycle, including:

• Product reliability: Materials and processes consistently meet performance and environmental requirements.
• Manufacturing quality: Reduced defects, variation, rework, and scrap.
• Process capability: Manufacturing processes demonstrate repeatability and sustained capability.
• Yield and productivity: Improved production yield, throughput, and operational efficiency.
• Cost: Reduced material, manufacturing, quality, and lifecycle costs.
• Time to market: Efficient development and qualification of new materials and processes.
• Risk reduction: Identification and mitigation of material, process, supplier, and manufacturing risks before they affect production or customers.

 

What You Bring to the Team

 

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of materials science, material properties, material selection, and material degradation mechanisms.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing and process-development principles.
• Experience developing, optimizing, qualifying, and controlling manufacturing processes.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, material specifications, process specifications, and technical standards.
• Experience with root-cause analysis, failure analysis, and structured problem-solving.
• Experience designing and executing engineering experiments, process trials, and qualification programs.
• Ability to analyze technical data and translate results into clear engineering decisions and recommendations.
• Working knowledge of statistical methods, process capability, variation analysis, and Design of Experiments (DOE).
• Understanding quality systems, engineering change control, and manufacturing process controls.
• Ability to assess technical risk and develop appropriate mitigation strategies.

 

Materials & Process Expertise

• Metal Additive Manufacturing
• Cryoforming
• Metals and alloys
• Coatings and surface treatments
• Adhesives and bonding
• Machining
• Casting and forging
• Welding and joining
• Heat treatment
• Surface finishing and cleaning
• Materials characterization and mechanical testing

 

Bonus Points

• Experience in high-growth, startup, or technically complex environments
• Applied background in Aerospace

 

Compensation

 

Salary Range: $150,000 – $195,000

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: Enjoy PTO as needed and holiday breaks to help you balance work and life, including two week long company winter breaks and paid leave to support a family member, bond with a new child, or manage your own 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!