Experienced Mechanical Designer

Job ID: 5951A
Date Posted: January 20, 2026

Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a qualified Mechanical Designer to design and generate drawings for flight hardware and ground support equipment for our Civil & Commercial Space Division. The selected candidate will also be involved in manufacturing coordination, assembly, and hardware testing.

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:

• Collaborates with cross-functional teams and uses CAD software (NX) to produce 3D models of flight hardware and ground support equipment
• Produces part fabrication and assembly drawings
• Plans and executes hardware assembly, including generating assembly plans, kitting hardware, supporting assembly activities, and documenting builds in accordance with SDL’s quality management system
• Performs laboratory prototyping, assembling, and testing
• Performs detailed tolerance analysis
• Communicates effectively through written reports and presentations

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 15+ years of professional mechanical design experience with a high school diploma or equivalent, or 10+ years of professional mechanical design experience with a bachelor’s degree
• Strong proficiency in CAD design and drafting
• Proficiency with GD&T per ASME Y14.5
• Understanding of industry specifications, fabrication techniques, and processes
• Ability to communicate clearly with personnel of varying technical and professional backgrounds, including the preparation presentation materials
• Ability to generate, plan, schedule, and coordinate fabrication of materials, parts, and assemblies throughout the fabrication cycle to meet due dates, contractual requirements, and program goals
• Must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Security Clearance

• Bachelor’s degree in an applicable technical field
• Proficiency with NX and Solid Edge design software
• Experience with product lifecycle management software (e.g., Teamcenter or SolidWorks PDM)
• Experience designing for space environment
• Experience with mechanisms and kinematics
• Experience with composite materials
• Experience designing optical systems

• $63,000 - $109,000
  • 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 offer.

SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue