Med-Senior Level Mechanical Engineer

Job ID: 6042A
Date Posted: January 26, 2026
Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer to perform detailed design and analysis of space hardware and subsystems. The ideal candidate will be able to immediately begin work on new projects, establish and document requirements, and work closely with small and large engineering teams to turn ideas into working hardware. The nature of the work is rewarding, and employees feel a sense of accomplishment from working on projects from concept through design, implementation, test, and delivery.

The Civil & Commercial Space Division is at the forefront of scientific research and space exploration. We equip major Government and commercial missions with calibrated state-of-the-art sensors and satellites. We also provide world-class AI&T technologies and mission management. Our projects include challenges across planetary science, Earth observation, heliophysics, and astrophysics. Be part of a team that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in space and contributes to monumental scientific discoveries.

Key Responsibilities:

• Performs mechanical design
• Performs mechanical analysis
• Performs detailed tolerance analysis
• Works with the machine shop and vendors for hardware fabrication
• Performs laboratory prototyping, assembling, and testing
• Communicates effectively through written reports and presentations

• Bachelor’s degree in an applicable technical field (e.g., mechanical engineering) and 5-20 years of relevant experience
• Proficient in the use of computer-aided design tools (Solid Edge preferred)
• Demonstrated proficiency with GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and providing mechanical tolerance analysis
• Understanding of industry specifications, fabrication techniques, and processes
• Attention to ISO Quality Assurance standards and other relevant documentation standards
• Experience writing technical plans and procedures
• Ability to manage vendors or sub-contractors including creating specifications and statements of work (SOW)
• Track record of successfully collaborating with teams of engineers
• Communicates clearly with personnel of varying technical and professional backgrounds, including building presentation slides
• Ability to generate, plan, schedule, and coordinate fabrication of materials, parts, and assemblies through the fabrication cycle according to due dates to meet contractual requirements and program goals
• Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance
• Must be able to travel on a regular basis and work off-site for extended periods of time

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering
• Experience designing for space environment
• Experience in mechanical design of optical instruments and thermal vacuum cryogenic tests
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment with precision optical elements and instruments
• Proficient in the use of computer-aided analysis tools (FEMAP for pre- and post-processing of finite element models; knowledge of NASTRAN for structural analysis)
• Experience in thermal and structural/dynamics analysis
• Experience in opto-mechanical design of optical instruments
• Proficient in the use of Thermal Desktop for thermal analysis

• $93,000 - $161,000
  • Salary commensurate based on education and relevant experience

This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate’s preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.

Why Join SDL?
*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we