Senior Spacecraft Mechanism Design Engineer

Department: Space Mobility R&D

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Irvine, California

Compensation: $140,000 - $180,000 / year

Description

Introduction - 
As a Senior Spacecraft Mechanism Design Engineer, you will conceive, design, and implement complex electromechanical spacecraft mechanisms. You will be part of the mechanical engineering team and work on the conceptual, preliminary, and detailed design, analysis, fabrication, and testing of our vehicles and mechanisms. You’re able to brainstorm concepts and solutions and generate detailed specifications & drawings and analyze static and dynamic structures to quantify performance 

Key Responsibilities

• Design and Development: Conceive, develop and design precision electromechanical systems for the extreme conditions encountered in space environments. A deep understanding of electromechanical design, normally acquired with several years of precision machine design experience, is integral to this position. Ensure designs meet mission requirements and industry standards.
• Integration: Work with engineering teams to integrate mechanical systems into spacecraft and satellite platforms. Ensure compatibility with electrical, thermal, and software systems.
• Testing and Validation: Create and execute test plans for mechanical systems. Perform performance and reliability testing to validate system functionality and compliance with specifications.
• Problem-Solving: Address and resolve technical issues related to mechanical systems. Troubleshoot problems and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Documentation: Prepare and maintain accurate documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and technical manuals. Ensure all documentation meets company and industry standards.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software engineers, and mission planners, to address and resolve integration and performance issues.

Required Qualifications

• Required
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience: 15+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with experience in designing and developing high precision electromechanical systems for extreme environments. Experience with spacecraft or high-tech industries is a plus.
  • Technical Skills: Knowledge of mechanical system design, structural analysis, kinematics, dynamics, electric motors, actuators, and controls. Proficiency with engineering tools and software for design and simulation (e.g., SolidWorks).
  • Experience with 3D CAD, 2D drafting, GD&T, and tolerance analysis
  • Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.
  • Communication: Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly and collaborate with team members.
  • Must be able to obtain a Secret and/or a TS/SCI clearance.
    
    
• Preferred
  • Education: Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.
  • Experience: 15+ years of experience in machine design, with significant experience in aerospace or space technology sectors, including an in-depth understanding of the unique requirements and challenges associated with mechanical systems for space missions. Experience with satellite systems is a plus
  • Advanced Skills: Expertise in mechanical systems design and integration techniques as applied to motors, electronic components, bearings, gears, power screws, springs, clutches, brakes, materials, lubrication, and coating selection. Familiarity with high-stress materials, thermal control systems, and space-qualified components.
  • Innovation: Demonstrated ability to contribute to innovative mechanical system designs and improvements.
  • Advanced, hands-on skills with machine tools and various fabrication techniques.

ITAR Requirements: 

• This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158,  or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. 

Benefits

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, and holidays to e