Payload Engineer

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

Stratolaunch is seeking a Level II or Sr‑level Mechanical or Structural Engineer to lead the design, build, and integration of experimental customer payloads on the Talon‑A hypersonic vehicles. This position involves working with a multi‑disciplinary engineering team, program management, and customers. While this role is primarily mechanical integration focused, an ideal candidate will also have experience with system integration and avionics packaging.

• Work across many teams and subsystems to define interface and integration requirements
• Perform the design and analysis, if necessary, of mechanical and avionics packaging of customer payloads
• Perform structural and thermal analysis of mechanical components and/or assemblies
• Create, organize, and manage 3D CAD sub models and master models for Talon‑A payloads
• Spec and order hardware, as required, to fabricate designs
• Deconflict hardware interface issues between teams by raising and helping correct issues quickly
• Support fabricators and mechanics in building and integrating all components and assemblies onto the vehicle
• Report to and support Talon‑A Payload Integration Lead
• Make suggestions and recommendations for improvements, including changes to workflow
• Support technical customer reviews and ensure contract deliverables are on time and meet or exceed customer requirements
• Provide technical support for payload proposals and contract negotiations
• Travel, as needed, to support the company
• Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity and fulfillment of commitments

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Proficient with 3D CAD modeling, assembly management, and PDM
• Ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to gain support or resolve concerns
• Ability to work on own initiative and prioritize tasking to fit within the business goals
• Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities
• Excellent written & verbal communication
• Ability to acquire and maintain a security clearance

• Experience with Solidworks
• Experience with structural analysis methods (hand calcs, FEMAP, Ansys, etc.)
• MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook)
• Familiarity with configuration management systems such as Jira
• Familiarity with requirement management systems such as Jama, Cameo, DOORS, etc.

• Experience working in small, dynamic engineering teams where each member often has multiple responsibilities
• Active TS/SCI security clearance

• Experience with NX and Team Center
• Experience with configuration management systems such as Jira
• Experience with requirement management systems such as Jama, Cameo, DOORS, etc.

• Level II (US $ 101,000‑146,500):
  Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 2‑5 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
• Sr‑level (US $ 120,500‑158,000):
  Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5‑10 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

• This position is located in Mojave, CA. Consideration for hybrid work arrangement with at least 75% on‑site time for well‑qualified candidates.
• Travel estimated to be