Spacecraft Structures Test Engineer

About the Role

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. These platforms hold the payload of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale with a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware engineering.

• Own structural test strategy and execution across components, subsystems, and fully integrated spacecraft.
• Develop and operate fluid, hydraulic, and pressurized systems, including high‑pressure and cryogenic environments.
• Design and integrate data acquisition and instrumentation (strain gauges, load cells, pressure transducers, thermocouples).
• Write and automate test procedures and scripts (primarily Python) for execution and data analysis.
• Lead test operations end‑to‑end, including setup, execution, and post‑test review.
• Troubleshoot hardware and drive root cause analysis on structural test failures.
• Partner cross‑functionally with design, analysis, avionics, and manufacturing to close the loop between test results and design.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or related engineering field.
• 3+ years of experience in spacecraft, launch vehicle, or complex structural testing.
• Background designing large‑scale structural test stands or load application systems.
• Strong fundamentals in structural mechanics, including strength, stability, and fatigue.
• Experience with structural analysis (hand calcs and/or FEM) and test correlation.
• Hands‑on experience with instrumentation and lab equipment (strain, load, pressure, thermal measurements).
• Experience designing, building, or operating structural test systems and hardware.
• Experience with test automation and scripting (Python or similar).
• Ability to operate in fast‑paced, high‑ownership environments with evolving requirements.

• Experience with environmental testing (TVAC, vibration, shock, EMI/EMC).
• Familiarity with NX/Teamcenter, Nastran, or ANSYS.
• Experience working with high‑pressure or cryogenic systems.

• Equity in Apex.
• Best‑in‑class healthcare: 100% company‑paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost.
• Comprehensive PTO package: starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays.
• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching – 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%.
• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work‑related travel.
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks.
• Monthly office events (BBQs, pickleball, run club, socials).
• State‑of‑the‑art office in Playa Vista with EV chargers.
• Flexibility to integrate work and life.

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.