Mechanical Engineer - Space Technologies

Job Description

Our AV team is expanding and in search of an experienced Mechanical Engineer. This role covers all levels of design from conceptual to detailed design and includes building and testing of systems. The engineer will provide engineering design and analysis support to diverse R&D programs and small-volume production contracts. Responsibilities include leading structural and thermal analysis of mechanical systems for space and airborne hardware, collaborating with a multidisciplinary project team, managing mechanical design and analysis activities, and supporting integration and formal acceptance‑test activities.

Projects range from packaging high reliability electronics subsystems to opto‑mechanical mechanism designs such as gimbal and steering mirror systems.

• Design structural components, electro‑mechanical payload design, ground equipment mechanical design, launching systems, flight control actuator integration, thermal analysis, prototype hardware development, tooling & fixtures design.
• Use CAD tools (Solid Works), simulation tools (Solid Works Simulation, ANSYS), and rapid prototyping techniques (3D printing, etc.).
• Work on problems of moderate scope requiring review of a variety of factors.
• Develop manufacturing drawings and bills of materials using industry drafting standards, support design reviews, assist project managers with planning and scheduling, and support manufacturing & suppliers.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering.
• At least 2 years’ experience in structural and thermal analysis (stress, modal, thermal conduction, bolt loads, etc.).
• Experience using CAD software, ideally Solid Works.
• Tolerance analysis and GD&T practices.
• Experience with space hardware design, analysis, integration, and test.
• Strong technical writing skills for engineering documentation.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

• 5–8 years’ experience in mechanical engineering of space systems.
• Strong verbal communication skills for customer interaction at design reviews and supplier interaction.
• Ability to adapt quickly to various projects and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience working independently or as part of a development team.
• Hands‑on experience in hardware assembly, integration, and test.
• Current U.S. security clearance.

No Clearance

$74,500 – $105,525

This position requires access to information subject to ITAR and/or EAR. Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person or be approved for an export license. Current U.S. citizenship may be required for some positions.

AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information visit

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. Aero Vironment, Inc. welcomes all qualified applicants and provides fair consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.