Principal Mechanical Engineer

Principal Mechanical Engineer Job Description

Our client is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and development of advanced spacecraft mechanical systems. This individual will serve as a technical leader across multiple programs, helping define architecture, guide engineering decisions, mentor team members, and drive spacecraft development from concept through deployment.

This is a highly visible role with broad ownership and significant influence over both technical direction and program execution.

• Lead the design and development of spacecraft structures, mechanisms, and mechanical systems
• Drive architecture decisions across spacecraft platforms and payload integrations
• Own mechanical system development through the entire product lifecycle
• Conduct trade studies and engineering analyses to support design decisions
• Support environmental qualification, integration, testing, and launch preparation
• Collaborate with electrical, software, manufacturing, systems, and mission engineering teams
• Mentor and guide engineers across the organization
• Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and technical planning activities
• Work closely with manufacturing teams to ensure successful production and integration

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline
• 12+ years of professional mechanical engineering experience
• Significant experience developing spacecraft, satellites, aerospace vehicles, or other highly complex hardware systems
• Expertise in mechanical system design, structures, mechanisms, and integration
• Strong CAD experience (Solid Works preferred)
• Experience leading hardware development programs from concept through deployment
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and design for manufacturability
• Proven technical leadership experience

• Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
• Experience supporting spacecraft environmental qualification testing
• Experience with satellite constellations or commercial space programs
• Startup or fast-paced product development experience
• Experience mentoring and developing engineering teams
• Familiarity with FEA, thermal analysis, and structural analysis tools

• Competitive base salary
• Equity/stock option package
• Relocation assistance available
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k)
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Flexible work environment
• Career growth opportunities within a rapidly scaling organization

We are partnering with one of the fastest-growing companies in the commercial space industry. Our client is redefining how satellite constellations are designed, built, and deployed by combining cutting‑edge spacecraft technology with a mission‑driven approach to delivering real‑world impact from space. Founded by industry veterans from leading aerospace and satellite organizations, the company has rapidly grown into a team of over 200 engineers, scientists, and innovators focused on building next‑generation space infrastructure.

Their technology is already supporting critical missions and helping accelerate the future of Earth observation, environmental monitoring, and space‑based intelligence. This is an opportunity to join a company that is actively designing, building, and launching spacecraft—not simply planning for the future.

Own major spacecraft systems from concept through launch. Help shape the future of satellite constellation development. Work alongside engineers from top aerospace and technology companies. Influence architecture decisions, not just individual components. Join a high‑growth company with significant momentum and active flight programs. Competitive compensation and meaningful equity participation. Relocation assistance available. Comprehensive healthcare coverage and generous PTO.