Mechanical Engineer Manager

Job Title:

Mechanical Engineer Manager

Job Description

This role focuses on the design, analysis, and documentation of spacecraft mechanical systems, including structures, mechanisms, and mission-critical hardware that will operate in space. You will lead a small team of engineers and designers, contribute to key elements of the system architecture, and support the full lifecycle from concept and design through assembly, testing, and flight. The position sits in a fast-paced startup environment where you help build innovative on-orbit refueling capabilities and directly influence hardware that will fly in space.

Responsibilities

+ Design and draft spacecraft mechanical components and assemblies, including structures, MGSE (mechanical ground support equipment), actuators, and mechanisms.

+ Develop detailed parts designs that meet performance, reliability, and environmental requirements for space applications.

+ Perform analyses required to satisfy internal requirements for hardware performance, operational life, and environmental conditions, including launch and on-orbit environments.

+ Create, maintain, and manage 3D models and design documentation of mechanical systems using CAD tools, with a focus on Solid Works.

+ Apply GD&T principles to ensure clear, precise, and manufacturable mechanical drawings and documentation.

+ Support assembly and integration activities, including mechanical build, alignment, and fit checks for spacecraft hardware and MGSE.

+ Support and participate in testing of mechanical systems, including performance, shock, vibration, and other space-relevant environmental tests.

+ Troubleshoot mechanical issues discovered during assembly and testing and drive resolution through design updates or process improvements.

+ Lead and manage a team of 3-5 engineers and designers, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and day-to-day direction.

+ Collaborate closely with program managers to develop and maintain schedules, manage budgets, and align mechanical engineering activities with overall program timelines.

+ Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure mechanical designs integrate effectively with other subsystems and meet overall system architecture needs.

+ Contribute to continuous improvement in design practices, documentation standards, and test methodologies within the mechanical engineering team.

Essential Skills

+ Proficiency with Solid Works for 3D modeling, mechanical design, and creation of detailed drawings.

+ Strong experience in mechanism design, including actuators and other moving mechanical assemblies for complex systems.

+ Hands-on experience with GD&T, including creating and interpreting geometric dimensioning and tolerancing on mechanical drawings.

+ Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to manage and guide a small team of engineers and designers.

+ Experience designing mechanical systems for high-performance, high-reliability environments, ideally including shock, vibration, and thermal considerations.

+ Ability to perform or interpret mechanical analyses to verify hardware performance, life, and environmental compatibility.

+ Strong communication skills to work effectively with program managers and cross-functional engineering teams.

+ Aerospace experience preferred, particularly in spacecraft, space structures, or related space hardware.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Background in aerospace, mechanical engineering, or a related discipline.

+

Experience with mechanical ground support equipment (MGSE) design and integration.

+ Familiarity with testing in shock, vibration, and other environmental conditions relevant to launch and space.

+ Experience working in a fast-paced startup or similarly dynamic environment.

+ Interest in or experience with on-orbit refueling, in-space servicing, or related space technologies.

+ Ability to thrive in a culture that embraces experimentation, learning from failures, and rapid iteration.

Work Environment

You will join a close-knit team of approximately four engineers working in an open workspace where collaboration and direct communication are encouraged. Leadership sits alongside the engineering team, reinforcing a hands-on,…