Mechanical Engineer, Technical Lead

About the role

Stratolaunch is dedicated to pioneering advancements in hypersonic technology through practical operational testing at speeds surpassing Mach

5. Our Talon testbeds offer a reusable and cost-effective means to access hypersonic environments, providing essential flight data that aids in validating system performance and accelerating technology deployment. We are seeking a Senior or Staff Mechanical Engineer to lead the ongoing development of our Talon-A hypersonic flight vehicle systems. This role involves guiding a team of engineers in the design, construction, integration, and testing of enhancements for both the vehicle and its payload.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Work in close collaboration with program engineers, the Payload Lead, and the Chief Engineer for Talon-A to ensure alignment on project goals.
• Lead a diverse team of engineers, comprising mechanical, structural, and manufacturing experts, to drive project success.
• Supervise advancements in structural design for hypersonic vehicle systems, including payload integration, while conducting trade studies and layout planning.
• Make critical technical decisions related to the structures subsystem, ensuring robust engineering practices.
• Organize and facilitate structural design reviews to support vehicle manufacturing and flight testing processes.
• Develop and implement structural engineering practices, which encompass requirements generation, mass properties management, and configuration oversight.
• Maintain regular communication with the program's Chief Engineer to report on progress and challenges.
• Play a vital role in the integration of complex aerospace systems, ensuring all components function cohesively.
• Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and dedication in all aspects of work.

Requirements

• Expertise in one or more of the following domains: structures, loads, structural-thermal analysis, mechanical systems, aircraft systems, and launch vehicle integration.
• Proven experience in the swift development of prototype or experimental flight vehicles.
• A background in structural or mechanical design engineering, particularly within a structures team.
• Familiarity with composite structures analysis, design, and manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrated experience in a technical leadership role.
• Understanding of aerospace project management, including coordination with subcontractors.
• Experience in risk management practices.
• Ability to excel in small engineering teams where versatility is essential.
• Strong initiative and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively in alignment with business objectives.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities as needed.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience with advanced materials and manufacturing techniques.
• Knowledge of hypersonic flight dynamics and related technologies.
• Familiarity with aerospace regulatory requirements and standards.
• Previous involvement in multi-disciplinary engineering projects.
• Experience with simulation and modeling tools for aerospace applications.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Familiarity with configuration management tools such as JIRA, GIT, and JAMA.
• Experience with 3D CAD software, preferably CATIA or Solidworks.

Education & experience

• For Senior Level: A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field along with 5-10 years of engineering experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Salary range: $120,500 - $158,000.
• For Staff Level: A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field with 10-20 years of engineering experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Salary range: $157,000 - $206,000.

Practical notes

• This position is based in Mojave, CA, with the possibility of a hybrid work arrangement for suitable candidates.
• Occasional travel may be required, estimated at less than 10%.
• Benefits include a 9/80 work schedule, comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, vision, and prescription), paid maternity and parental leave, a 401(k) savings plan with a 50% company match up to $11,500, and tuition reimbursement.

Stratolaunch is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds. We uphold equal opportunity employment practices and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Please be aware that U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain roles that necessitate government clearance.

About the company

High-speed flight test services form the core work of this American aerospace team. Company roots trace to 2011, created by Paul Allen and Burt Rutan to explore air-launched space transport. Home base is Seattle. Earlier collaboration on SpaceShipOne informed the project. New ownership arrived in 2019 through Cerberus Capital Management. Funding remains private. Operations follow a non-traditional defense contractor model, focusing on test missions and system development under continued private investment.