Mechanical Engineer, Structures

About the role

You will own the complete mechanical design and analysis of satellite structures from initial concept through flight hardware qualification. You will translate high-level system requirements into robust, manufacturable mechanical solutions that survive the harsh environment of space. You will collaborate across disciplines to ensure structural integrity while optimizing mass, volume, and integration efficiency. You will drive the development of critical mechanical components that enable our unique antenna and spacecraft architecture. You will lead structural testing campaigns and interpret test results to validate designs and guide iterations. You will mentor junior engineers by providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of rigorous engineering practices. You will act as a key technical interface with suppliers, manufacturing partners, and other engineering teams to ensure seamless execution. You will contribute to the development of standards, processes, and best practices that elevate the quality of our space systems.

Key facts

What you'll do

Define and develop the mechanical architecture for satellite structures, ensuring alignment with mission objectives and system-level requirements.

Perform detailed structural analysis using finite element methods to validate load paths, margins, and performance under launch and orbital conditions.

Lead the design of satellite mechanical subsystems, including brackets, panels, chassis, and mounting structures, while enforcing mass and volume constraints.

Develop comprehensive mechanical specifications and interface documents that guide procurement, integration, and verification activities.

Coordinate with electrical, thermal, and software engineering teams to resolve cross-disciplinary interface issues and ensure holistic system performance.

Establish and maintain mechanical baselines that capture design decisions, trade studies, and verification outcomes throughout the product lifecycle.

Support the development of mechanical test procedures and oversee structural qualification testing to verify compliance with mission requirements.

Document design rationales, engineering decisions, and verification results to ensure traceability and facilitate future audits or reviews.

Drive the implementation of design for manufacturing and design for assembly principles to streamline production and reduce risk.

Champion the adoption of model-based definition practices to improve accuracy, reduce errors, and enhance collaboration across teams.

Evaluate emerging materials and manufacturing processes, recommending their application where they provide measurable performance or cost advantages.

Partner with the operations team to ensure designs are practical, reliable, and supportable throughout the satellite lifecycle.

Contribute to the creation of technical presentations, proposals, and reports that communicate complex mechanical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Proactively identify potential mechanical risks and develop mitigation strategies in collaboration with the broader project team.

Requirements

Demonstrate a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field, with a strong focus on mechanical design and analysis.

Possess a minimum of 3 years of non-academic professional experience in satellite mechanical engineering, with a proven track record of delivering flight hardware.

Showcase a deep understanding of mechanical analysis methods, including structural analysis, vibration, shock, and thermal deformation under space environment conditions.

Have hands-on experience with finite element analysis tools such as NASTRAN, ANSYS, or equivalent for structural modeling and simulation.

Exhibit strong knowledge of space-qualified materials, manufacturing processes, and surface treatment techniques relevant to satellite applications.

Illustrate familiarity with relevant industry standards and design practices, including but not limited to ECSS, NASA-STD-7003, and ISO standards where applicable.

Display a methodical approach to engineering, with excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Confirm eligibility to work in the United States without sponsorship, as this role does not offer visa sponsorship at this time.

Nice to have

Experience with antenna mechanical design and integration within a satellite payload context.

Familiarity with hyper-scaled IoT systems and the unique connectivity challenges they aim to solve.

Background in sustainable spacecraft design or life-cycle analysis for space systems.

Practical notes

This role is based in our Saratoga, CA office.

This role requires at least 3 solid years (non-academic) Satellite experience.