Senior Machine Design Engineer

Who We Are:

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head‑on.

Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head‑on.

Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.

This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.

We are seeking a Senior Machine Design Engineer to design, analyze, prototype, and validate complex machines, precision mechanisms, and electromechanical systems. This individual will apply first-principles engineering and practical machine-design experience to develop robust, manufacturable hardware for demanding aerospace environments. The role will work closely with engineering, manufacturing, test, suppliers, and program leadership to deliver flight-ready systems.

• Develop mechanical architectures and concepts for complex machines, precision mechanisms, structures, and assemblies.
• Own hardware from initial requirements and trade studies through detailed design, prototyping, qualification, and production.
• Perform engineering calculations covering stress, fatigue, deflection, thermal expansion, and tolerance stack-ups.
• Select and integrate bearings, motors, gearboxes, ball screws, linear guides, springs, clutches, fasteners, and related components.
• Create production-ready Solid Works models, detailed manufacturing drawings, interfaces, and GD&T specifications.
• Apply Design for Manufacturing and Design for Assembly principles while working with suppliers and manufacturing teams.
• Build and test prototypes, root-cause hardware failures, and implement corrective design actions.
• Support qualification and environmental testing, including vibration, shock, and thermal-vacuum testing.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.
• 7+ years of professional experience designing complex machines, mechanical systems, or precision mechanisms.
• Advanced proficiency in Solid Works and experience creating detailed manufacturing drawings.
• Strong knowledge of machine design, mechanical component selection, GD&T, and tolerance analysis.
• Experience using hand calculations and FEA to guide and validate mechanical designs.
• Working knowledge of CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication,…