Senior Test Design Engineer

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight‑proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

As a Senior Test Engineer focused on CAD and mechanical design, you’ll be responsible for developing the physical infrastructure behind our propulsion, avionics, and spacecraft test programs. You’ll take ideas from concept through CAD, fabrication, integration, and operation—enabling fast, safe, and repeatable test execution across Astra’s programs. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on bringing ideas into reality through rapid iteration and mechanical creativity.

• Design custom test hardware, fixtures, mounts, fluid routing, and mechanical systems in CAD (Solid Works preferred).
• Own test stand mechanical design from concept through detailed drawings, release, and build support.
• Collaborate with test engineers and technicians to translate functional requirements into robust physical designs.
• Work hands‑on to support hardware integration and troubleshoot mechanical issues during setup and operation.
• Develop documentation and drawing packages that support repeatable fabrication and field operation.
• Drive design‑for‑simplicity and design‑for‑maintainability principles into test infrastructure.
• Source parts, create BOMs, and work with vendors and in‑house machinists to deliver hardware on schedule.

• 3+ years of experience designing hardware (internships, labs, or personal projects welcome).
• High proficiency with 3D CAD tools (Solid Works strongly preferred; NX, CATIA also acceptable).
• Experience designing mechanical systems involving fluid routing, pressure systems, or test equipment.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing methods, tolerancing, and drawing best practices.
• Willingness to work closely with technicians and iterate on designs based on real‑world feedback.
• Willingness to support test operations on‑site in Atwater, CA as needed.
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.

• Experience with design for high‑pressure, cryogenic, or hazardous systems.
• Exposure to FEA or structural analysis for validation of mechanical components.
• Familiarity with rapid prototyping, machine shop tools, or fabrication processes.
• Experience working in a fast‑paced aerospace or R&D environment.

The pay range for this role is: $130,000 - $165,000 per year

The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.

You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Astra, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency;

in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicant’s ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.