Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

LEAP Space - We are hiring a Senior Mechanical Engineer, design.

Role: Senior Mechanical Engineer, design

Working model: Hybrid

As our Flight Mechanical Designer, you will play a pivotal role in bringing our rocket systems to life. This role will focus on taking parts from concept to production with detailed component and mechanism design including 3D CAD models, fabrication drawings, analysis, and component specifications. From mechanical structures (Like thrust structures) to mechanisms (like engine gimbals), you will ensure that every mechanical system is designed for manufacturability, minimal mass, and performance.

Your designs, in close collaboration with the analysis and fabrication teams, will form the backbone of our rocket’s success.

• Deliver flight-critical mechanical designs from concept through production, producing robust, lightweight structures and mechanisms that meet performance, manufacturability, and reliability requirements
• Translate system-level requirements into detailed component designs, drawings, and specifications that enable efficient fabrication, assembly, and integration
• Design mechanical systems with manufacturability and testability in mind, reducing build complexity, improving first-pass success, and minimizing downstream rework
• Support mechanism and structural testing by developing test plans, participating in test execution, and analyzing results to validate designs and inform rapid iteration
• Collaborate closely with analysis, fabrication, and operations teams to ensure designs perform as intended in real-world manufacturing, test, and flight environments
• Identify and resolve technical challenges quickly and effectively, balancing speed with engineering rigor in a fast-paced development environment
• Produce clear, accurate documentation- including CAD models, drawings, and reports- that enables repeatable builds and long-term configuration control
• Mentor junior engineers through design reviews and day-to-day collaboration, raising the overall quality, speed, and consistency of mechanical design across the team

• Mechanical, mechatronic or Aerospace engineering degree (Required)
• CAD software such as NX, CREO, or Solidworks (Required)
• Demonstrated ability to work in fast-paced, high-accountability environments
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Organized, detail-oriented approach to work and documentation
• Ability to learn new tools, systems, or domains as needed

• Experience in high-growth, startup, or technically complex environments
• Experience using Jira or other Project Management tools
• Proven track record of flight mechanisms

Salary Range: $145,000 - $170,000

The estimated salary range for this role reflects various compensation factors. The final offer depends on factors such as work experience, education, training, key skills, and business needs.

In addition, LEAP provides a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, which includes:

• Equity Program: Equity plan participation is available to all employees following an initial 90-day employment period and is performance-based. Equity allocations are determined on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed. Managers may make recommendations based on individual and team performance. All equity grants are subject to executive review and approval in accordance with the Company’s equity plan.
• Retirement Planning: Save for the future with a 401(k) plan that includes competitive company matching.
• Growth Opportunities: Take advantage of a professional development stipend to advance your skills and expertise.
• Flexible Time Off: We encourage taking time off when you need it. Our policy includes unlimited PTO, generous holiday breaks, two week-long company winter shutdowns, and paid leave for family care, parental bonding, or personal health needs.
• Remote Work Flexibility: Our team operates on a hybrid model. We expect you to work with your team for specific details on work location.
• Health Benefits: LEAP provides comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage at minimal to no cost for employees. Coverage for dependents and HSA are also available.
• Insurance Coverage: We cover basic life and long-term disability insurance, with options to add extra coverage to ensure peace of mind for you and your family.

LEAP is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace in Colorado. Our team brings together exceptionally talented and diverse individuals who are pushing the boundaries of space access and logistics. We welcome all qualified applicants and provide equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.

This includes individuals with a criminal history, in compliance with applicable regulations. We actively encourage applications from…