Mechanical Engineer
Job description
About the role
At SpaceX, we are on a mission to revolutionize global internet access through our Starlink satellite constellation. The Mechanical Engineer position is integral to the development of our optical hardware platform, where you will oversee the mechanical subsystems from their initial design phases all the way to high-volume production. This role demands a blend of creativity and technical expertise to ensure that our designs meet the rigorous standards required for space applications.
Key facts
What you'll do
- Oversee the entire lifecycle of significant mechanical subsystems, from defining requirements to design, analysis, and prototyping.
- Design and develop electro-mechanical assemblies that adhere to stringent tolerance specifications across both optical and electrical interfaces.
- Enhance designs to facilitate automated assembly processes and ensure high production yields.
- Formulate validation strategies and create test fixtures aimed at minimizing mechanical risks.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish system-level architecture, focusing on packaging and trade-offs across various domains.
- Generate comprehensive technical documentation, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) drawings and engineering change records.
- Analyze mechanical failures that occur during production and implement design modifications to prevent recurrence.
- Engage in continuous improvement initiatives to refine mechanical designs and production methodologies.
- Participate in design reviews and provide constructive feedback to peers to enhance overall project outcomes.
- Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in mechanical engineering to incorporate best practices into your work.
- Mentor junior engineers and interns, fostering a culture of learning and innovation within the team.
- Support the integration of new technologies and materials into existing designs to improve performance and reliability.
Requirements
- A Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline is required.
- Proficiency in CAD and finite element analysis (FEA) software is essential.
- Hands-on experience in the design, analysis, testing, or manufacturing of mechanical or electromechanical systems, including relevant internship experience.
- Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as necessary to meet project deadlines.
- Compliance with ITAR regulations is mandatory; candidates must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Nice to have
- A Master's degree in engineering or a related technical field is advantageous.
- At least 3 years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis is preferred.
- A minimum of 2 years of direct experience with complex mechanical systems, ideally in a leadership role within a team.
- Familiarity with 3D CAD software, particularly NX, is a plus.
- In-depth understanding of GD&T principles, structural analysis techniques, and failure mode identification.
- Experience in guiding a complex assembly from the design stage through to a high-volume production ramp is beneficial.
- Knowledge of design for manufacturability principles and familiarity with industrial production equipment, such as motion systems, dispensing systems, temperature controllers, laser sensors, injection molding machines, or die casting equipment.
Skills & tools
- Proficient in CAD software (NX preferred)
- Experienced with FEA tools
- Knowledgeable in GD&T
- Skilled in structural analysis
- Familiar with production machinery and industrial sensors
Practical notes
SpaceX is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. If you require reasonable accommodations or need access to our Affirmative Action Plan, please reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com. We look forward to your application and the possibility of you joining our innovative team in Bastrop, TX, where you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of global connectivity.
About the company
Based in Starbase, Texas, a company pursues work in spaceflight, telecom, and artificial intelligence. A unit handles rocket launches, leading yearly orbital counts beyond other national and commercial teams. Another unit runs Starlink, a satellite communications firm. A third area, through SpaceXAI, advances Grok and AI integration with X, while managing data center operations. Roles often cross these paths. Candidates with engineering, software, or operations backgrounds may find chances to join projects that span launch, connectivity, and machine learning efforts in this Texas-based enterprise.