Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer

Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer
Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site
Package: Competitive Salary + Equity + Benefits + Flexible PTO

Are you a Senior Mechanical Engineer passionate about building space-grade structures and systems from the ground up?

On offer is the opportunity to join a high-growth satellite startup redefining the way satellites are designed and built using advanced computational tools and first-principles engineering. You’ll take technical ownership of spacecraft mechanical systems, from structure and CAD design to integration and automated workflows.

Join a team focused on delivering fully custom satellite buses at unprecedented speed and precision. You’ll play a key role in transforming spacecraft manufacturing through innovative design, automation, and tight collaboration across disciplines.

This position would suit a multidisciplinary mechanical engineer seeking deep technical ownership and the chance to shape how satellites are built.

Key Responsibilities
* Design, develop, assemble, and test spacecraft primary and secondary structures.
* Build detailed CAD models and drawings including GD&T and surface finishes.
* Define and execute structural analysis including bolted-joint calculations and FEA.
* Lead mechanical integration, hardware testing, and full spacecraft assembly.
* Develop software tools and automation workflows for structural engineering tasks.
* Work cross-functionally to integrate structures with avionics, thermal, and propulsion subsystems.
* Ensure adherence to industry standards including NASA GEVS and internal specs.
* Document technical processes, test results, and design iterations.
* Mentor junior engineers and help drive a culture of engineering excellence.

Essential Skills and Experience
* Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or similar engineering field.
* 5+ years of relevant experience in spacecraft or aerospace mechanical systems.
* Expert in structural design, harness layout, and mechanical systems integration.
* Proficient in CAD tools and FEA packages.
* Knowledge of material finishes, torque specs, and fastener analysis.
* Familiarity with the NASA GEVS testing standard.
* Comfortable working in cleanroom environments with ESD protocols.
* Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Application Instructions
If you are interested in this role, please click to apply or send your resume to jake.payne@newspacetechnical.com