Mechanical Systems · Mechanical Systems
Mechanical & Structural Engineer
Design lightweight flight structures that survive launch loads while meeting stiffness, alignment, thermal and mass constraints.
Role mandate
Build the capability for the era ahead.
This team member will combine subject-matter depth, sound judgment and disciplined execution to move the mission from architecture to measurable results.
Responsibilities
- Own the Mechanical Systems workstream for Mechanical & Structural Engineer and deliver measurable technical or operating outcomes.
- Develop subsystem models, performance margins and design trades tied to mission requirements.
- Plan analysis and testing for nominal, off-nominal and end-of-life conditions.
- Coordinate interfaces with spacecraft bus, payload, software, operations and launch teams.
Required qualifications
- Relevant engineering experience in GNC, flight dynamics, propulsion, thermal or mechanical spacecraft systems.
- Proficiency with analysis, simulation and verification methods used in the discipline.
- Strong understanding of margins, failure modes and configuration control.
Preferred experience
- Experience with spacecraft development, launch integration or on-orbit operations.
- Advanced degree or equivalent depth in the applicable engineering discipline.
Scientific and technical requirements
Physics, mathematics and engineering foundations
- Statics, dynamics, strength of materials, vibration, fatigue, fracture, tribology and precision mechanism design.
- Linear algebra, differential equations, finite elements, modal analysis, tolerance statistics and uncertainty.
Mathematics and working equations
- Stress σ = F/A, strain ε = ΔL/L and elastic response σ = Eε within material limits.
- Modal dynamics Mẍ + Cẋ + Kx = F(t); first-mode frequency and response must clear launch/control requirements.
- Euler buckling Pcr = π²EI/(KL)²; apply joint, imperfection and load-path knockdowns.
- Mechanism torque budget includes inertia, friction, harness, preload, thermal distortion and deployment margin.
Hardware, flight and infrastructure components
- Primary panels/frames, brackets, fasteners, inserts, launch-vehicle adapter, optical bench and alignment features.
- Hinges, bearings, gears, latches, hold-down/release devices, motors, encoders, limit switches, lubricants and launch restraints.
Software, laboratory and analysis tools
- CAD and GD&T; NASTRAN/ANSYS/Abaqus or equivalent FEA; MATLAB/Python; tolerance and mechanism dynamics analysis.
- Shakers, load frames, modal hammers, strain gauges, accelerometers, photogrammetry and metrology equipment.
Verification and mission skills
- Static strength, buckling, fatigue, modal survey, sine/random vibration, shock, deployment cycles, life, alignment and workmanship inspection.
Authoritative technical references
The hiring sequence will follow operating milestones and project requirements. The position may begin through advisory, consulting or project-based work before moving into a full-time role.
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