Payload Mechanical Engineer

About the role

Stratolaunch is seeking a Level II or Senior Mechanical or Structural Design Engineer to lead the design, construction, and integration of experimental payloads for the Talon-A hypersonic vehicles. This position focuses on mechanical design engineering and requires collaboration with various teams to develop innovative payload solutions. The role also involves significant hands-on manufacturing work, ensuring that designs are effectively constructed and integrated into the vehicle systems.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Work closely with cross-functional teams to define interface and integration specifications for payloads.
• Design and analyze the mechanical and avionics packaging for customer payloads, ensuring optimal performance.
• Conduct thorough structural and thermal evaluations of mechanical components and assemblies to ensure reliability and safety.
• Create and manage 3D CAD models and master models for all Talon-A payloads, maintaining accuracy and consistency.
• Identify, specify, and procure the necessary hardware components to support your designs.
• Proactively resolve hardware interface conflicts by identifying issues and implementing solutions swiftly.
• Collaborate with fabrication and mechanics teams during the construction and integration phases of components onto the vehicle.
• Provide support and report to the Talon-A Payload Integration Lead, ensuring alignment with project goals.
• Suggest enhancements to workflows and processes to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
• Engage in technical reviews with customers to guarantee that contract deliverables are met on time and to satisfaction.
• Offer technical support during payload proposals and contract negotiations, ensuring clarity and understanding.
• Be prepared to travel as needed to support various company initiatives and projects.
• Maintain a high level of integrity and accountability in all professional commitments.

Requirements

• Strong proficiency in 3D CAD modeling, assembly management, and product data management systems.
• Experience with similar CAD platforms is acceptable, demonstrating flexibility in software use.
• Excellent communication skills, enabling the clear articulation of technical challenges to a wide range of audiences.
• Self-motivated individual capable of prioritizing tasks that align with business objectives effectively.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work environments.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be capable of obtaining and maintaining a security clearance as required.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with NX or SolidWorks for advanced CAD modeling.
• Experience with structural analysis methods, including hand calculations and software like FEMAP or Ansys.
• Proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Knowledge of configuration management systems such as Jira to track project progress.
• Experience with requirements management tools like Jama, Cameo, or DOORS for effective project management.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in advanced CAD software, particularly NX or SolidWorks, for designing complex systems.
• Familiarity with structural analysis techniques, including both manual calculations and software applications.
• Competence in Microsoft Office applications for documentation and presentation needs.
• Understanding of configuration and requirements management systems to streamline project workflows.

Practical notes

This position is primarily based in Mojave, CA, with a preference for candidates who can be on-site at least 75% of the time. Travel requirements are minimal, estimated at less than 10%, to support program needs.

Compensation and leveling are determined individually, taking into account factors such as geographic location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of skills and experience during the interview process.

• A 9/80 work schedule for improved work-life balance.
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans.
• Paid maternity and parental leave to support family needs.
• A 401(k) plan with a company match of 50% on contributions, up to $11,500.
• Tuition reimbursement to encourage ongoing education and professional development.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering diversity within the workplace. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Certain roles may require U.S. Citizenship for security clearance purposes.

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.