Mechanical Engineer II

We design, build, and deliver practical, reliable solutions to empower the next generation of warfighters and explorers to meet the demands of their missions. Exploration Technology Group is a technology hardware startup founded in 2024 by a team of techno‑optimists, motivated by the challenge of solving tough engineering problems, committed to creating sustainable change, and driven by a curiosity to explore and understand both our world and the universe.

For decades, the tools and technologies developed for spaceflight, defense, and exploration have not only helped us expand our understanding of the universe but have also supported human advancement here on Earth. We carry this legacy forward, knowing that innovation in these areas can lead to solutions that help people everywhere.

At ETG, we are actively developing cutting‑edge exploration and defense missions. If you join the team, you will have the opportunity to work on hardware and software for US Department of Defense missions, NASA programs, and much more.

• We're hiring a hands‑on mechanical engineer to join our team building space hardware systems, working across multiple disciplines. In this role, you'll take real flight hardware from concept to delivery, focusing on mechanical design while integrating with electrical systems and software. While you should be experienced with mechanical design, this isn't a narrow specialist role; we are seeking a generalist who sees the big picture, moves fast, and thrives on solving a new problem every day.

• Mechanical Design & Analysis: Create detailed mechanical designs using Solid Works, apply GD&T standards per ASME Y14.5, and conduct tolerance stackup analysis
• Lifecycle Systems Engineering: Design new parts and systems from first principles to meet goals. Support performance specification definition, verification planning, and technical documentation throughout the product lifecycle.
• Project Support: Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, manage vendor relationships, and provide technical and hands‑on support for manufacturing and assembly processes in San Francisco and at customer facilities.
• Cross‑Domain Engineering (Land/Air/Sea/Space): Conceive, design, develop, build, test, and deploy engineered systems for extreme environments with an emphasis on space.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field.
• Experience: 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design, preferably in aerospace, ocean, robotics, or similar.
• Technical skills:
  • Proficiency in 3D CAD (Solid Works Preferred)
  • Knowledge of GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and tolerance analysis
  • Knowledge of best design practices for mechanical parts
  • Experience with common prototyping and manufacturing processes and their limitations
• Preferences:
  • Expeditionary mindset: you have the curiosity and drive to ask big questions of about the natural world and deploy systems to extreme environments to answer those questions
  • Experience with space systems, satellites, or aerospace hardware development
  • Experience performing FEA
  • Experience with environmental testing and standards (e.g. NASA GEVS)
  • Hands‑on experience with laboratory equipment in a clean room environment

• Equity participation, healthcare, unlimited PTO, and professional development opportunities.

The pay range for this role is:

85, USD per year (San Francisco)