Mechanical/ Opto-mechanical Engineer

Location: Orlando, FL (Onsite)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Our client is a rapidly growing space technology startup seeking a Mechanical / Optomechanical Design Engineer with a minimum of 7 years of experience to lead the mechanical development of an innovative space-based LiDAR system. This role is based in Orlando, FL.

You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary engineering team to design a next-generation LiDAR payload, building on existing Earth-mapping LiDAR designs. The focus is on the mechanical and optomechanical structure of the payload and its interface with the satellite bus, spanning the full lifecycle from preliminary design through integration, assembly, test (AIT), and deployment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design of a space-based LiDAR payload from concept through detailed design, hardware build, AIT, and deployment
• Use CAD tools to design mechanical components including optical benches, actuation mechanisms, optomechanical assemblies, and packaging for electronics, connectors, and harnessing
• Perform mechanical analysis including FEM, vibration, acoustic response, and thermal deformation modelling
• Lead vibration and acoustic space qualification campaigns; support thermal vacuum (TVAC) testing campaigns
• Collaborate with technicians during assembly, integration, and testing of the LiDAR system
• Coordinate with satellite bus providers to manage mechanical and structural interfaces
• Engage with external vendors for part sourcing and support design for manufacturability (DFM/DFMA)
• Develop key engineering documentation including architecture documents, interface control documents (ICDs), and assembly/verification procedures
• Produce inputs for design reviews (PDR, CDR, MRR, FRR) and support proposal/RFP activities

Required Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering + 7 years of experience, or M.S./Ph.D. + 5 years in related aerospace or space systems roles
• Strong proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, CATIA, or equivalent)
• Experience in mechanical and optomechanical design for space applications and qualification campaigns
• Strong understanding of FEM, structural analysis, lightweight materials, and thermal deformation effects
• Experience translating system-level requirements into detailed mechanical design specifications
• Knowledge of GD&T standards (e.g., ISO GPS) with strong communication and documentation skills

Preferred Skills

• Hands-on experience with optomechanical systems and high-precision optical integration
• Experience with CFRP structures, machined component design, and thermal engineering
• Familiarity with EVMS cost and schedule management practices

Additional Requirements

• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
• Ability and willingness to work onsite in Orlando, FL

If you are interested, please get in touch and apply today.

madison.risdale@newspacetechnical.com / angela.olmo@newspacetechnical.com