Lead Mechanical Engineer

Lead Mechanical Engineer – Spacecraft HardwareWe’re working with an ambitious early-stage space company developing next-generation spacecraft, propulsion systems, and mission-critical hardware for operations beyond low Earth orbit.Founded by engineers from some of the most respected companies in the commercial space industry, the team is building highly capable spacecraft designed to expand access to high-energy and cislunar environments and support the next generation of commercial and government missions.This is a small, highly technical team where senior engineers are expected to take significant ownership and directly influence vehicle architecture, hardware development, and engineering execution.The RoleWe’re looking for a Lead Mechanical Engineer to take technical ownership of major spacecraft mechanical systems across structures, mechanisms, fluid systems, and associated ground hardware.This is still a highly hands-on engineering role. You’ll be expected to personally solve difficult technical problems, perform design and analysis, review hardware, support manufacturing, and lead testing - while also providing technical direction to other engineers.The role is particularly suited to someone who has already owned major aerospace or vehicle hardware and wants substantially more influence over both the technical solution and how the mechanical engineering function develops.ResponsibilitiesLead the design and development of primary and secondary spacecraft structuresOwn mechanical architecture and integration across major spacecraft subsystemsDesign and integrate fluid and pressure systems, including tubing, routing, packaging, and interfacesLead mechanical system trades and first-principles analysis to guide vehicle-level decisionsDevelop and review CAD models, drawings, GD&T, interface definitions, and engineering documentationPerform and review structural and mechanical analysis using hand calculations, FEA, Python, MATLAB, and other toolsDrive hardware through manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testDefine structural and mechanical test approaches and troubleshoot hardware during developmentLead design reviews and provide technical mentorship to other engineersWork closely with propulsion, avionics, GNC, manufacturing, and test teamsHelp establish mechanical engineering standards, processes, and best practices as the company growsRequirementsBS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical disciplineSignificant experience developing complex aerospace, spacecraft, launch vehicle, automotive, robotics, or similarly demanding hardwareStrong mechanical design fundamentals across structures, materials, mechanisms, manufacturing, and testDemonstrated ownership of major hardware or subsystems from concept through qualification or flightStrong understanding of structural design and analysisExperience with CAD, drawings, GD&T, material selection, DFM/DFA, and hardware integrationAbility to work from first principles and make sound engineering decisions with incomplete informationExperience leading technical reviews and influencing multidisciplinary engineering decisionsComfortable remaining deeply hands-on while mentoring and guiding other engineersIdeal BackgroundParticularly relevant backgrounds could include:Spacecraft or launch vehicle structuresPropulsion or pressurized-fluid hardwareHigh-performance automotive or vehicle developmentRobotics or mechatronic systemsOther highly integrated hardware developed in fast-paced engineering environments