Manager, Launch Mechanical Engineering

About the role

You will lead a team of engineers responsible for the full lifecycle of launch facilities and mechanical systems for the Terran R vehicle. This role involves overseeing the design, construction, and integration of hardware that interfaces directly with our rockets. You will balance technical oversight with personnel management to ensure our launch infrastructure meets mission requirements.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Manage and mentor a team of engineers focused on mechanisms, tooling, and vehicle interfaces.
• Establish work priorities and schedules aligned with launch program goals.
• Provide technical guidance on design decisions and mechanical engineering challenges.
• Coordinate staffing, resource allocation, and technical risk assessments across departments.
• Review system designs to ensure safety and reliability.
• Handle hiring, performance evaluations, and reporting on project status to leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field.
• 5+ years of experience in launch operations, testing, ground systems, or complex mechanical hardware.
• 1+ year of experience in a management role, including performance feedback and coaching.
• Proficiency in engineering fundamentals regarding structures, mechanical design, and fluid systems.
• Proven ability to deliver projects on schedule while managing technical trade-offs.
• Strong communication skills for interacting with both technical staff and executive leadership.

Nice to have

• Experience with launch vehicle interface mechanisms and specialized tooling.
• Familiarity with safety standards from NASA, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Space Force.
• Understanding of structural materials and manufacturing methods.
• Experience with fluid systems involving high-pressure gases, cryogenics, hydraulics, or flammable media.

Practical notes

• Compensation includes salary and equity.
• Benefits include PTO, sick leave, parental leave, and an annual learning and development stipend.
• Relativity Space is an equal opportunity employer.
• Requests for reasonable accommodations during the application process can be sent to accommodations@relativityspace.com.
• The company does not accept unsolicited resumes or referrals from recruitment agencies.