Engineering Manager, Umbra, VA, US

Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is simple and ambitious: redefine space—for people, systems, and missions in every domain. Umbra’s ecosystem operates through three business units: Remote Sensing (the data), Space Systems (the components), and Mission Solutions (the platforms). Together, our teams develop capabilities that deliver persistent access, resilient performance, and mission-ready solutions, advancing U.S. space leadership while keeping the world safe and informed.

About the Team
Mission Solutions – The Platforms 
Mission Solutions builds on Umbra’s expertise in remote sensing and spacecraft operations to engineer platforms purpose-built for U.S. and allied defense and intelligence missions. Whether it’s a custom payload, a full-stack spacecraft, or the infrastructure behind an entire constellation, our team delivers secure, resilient systems tailored to exacting requirements and built on timelines that match the urgency of the mission.  

If you want to work on cutting-edge space technology that’s redefining what’s possible in remote sensing, you belong here at Umbra.

About the Job
Umbra is seeking an Engineering Manager for Mission Solutions to lead the systems department. This individual will report to the Director of Engineering and oversee personnel who design, build, test, and operate advanced satellite technology.As Engineering Manager, you will collaborate with systems, hardware, and software teams, along with senior staff, to drive new technology development and nurture a talented group of engineers.

This position is based on-site in our Arlington, VA office. 

Key Responsibilities

• Functional management of technical staff includes:
• Coordinating and reporting on departmental efforts.
• Conducting regular one-on-one meetings and performance reviews.
• Guiding the professional development and career planning of mission solutions engineers, incorporating input from technical leadership.
• Managing workload, assignments, support, development, and conflict resolution for team members.
• Ensuring compliance with legal regulations, security standards, and company policies.
• Identifying opportunities for process improvements and implementing changes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Program staffing forecasts and recruiting
• Collaborate with stakeholders on headcount planning and hiring.
• Work closely with project, product, and technical leads to understand the scope of work, ensuring high-quality and efficient execution.
• Represent your team's needs and capacity in technical meetings, collaborating with architects to develop informed solutions.
• Use agile practices to support sprint planning, track progress, and manage individual performance.
• Develop resource basis of estimates for proposals and department growth
• Contribute and review proposal submissions for accuracy in technical content,
• Other professional duties as assigned.