Principal Mechanisms Engineer (Aerospace)

TL;DR

Principal Mechanisms Engineer (Aerospace): Defining requirements, design, manufacturing, testing, and validation of coarse pointing assemblies for large aperture optical payloads with an accent on precision mechanisms, line-of-sight error budgeting, and high-volume production. Focus on gimbal architectures, structural dynamics analysis, controls integration, and environmental qualification for space applications.

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Salary: $175,000 - $200,000 + equity

Company

Building the largest and highest-power satellites for missions from LEO to deep space, backed by major investors with signed contracts.

What you will do

• Collaborate with optical and satellite bus teams to define requirements for coarse pointing assemblies.
• Own top-level CAD assembly for optical payloads and optimize placement on satellite bus.
• Prepare design reviews, communicate with hardware, software, test, and manufacturing teams.
• Refine program deliverables, schedules, and select manufacturing equipment for specialty processes.
• Develop work instructions, in-process checkouts, and tests with production team.
• Deliver design tolerancing, error budgeting, test plans, supply chain, and performance validation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or relevant engineering
• 8+ years hands-on experience in optomechanics, electromechanical mechanisms, or design/testing
• Deep experience with CAD and FEA software (NX, Simcenter, FEMAP, Hypermesh)
• 3+ years with programming languages (Python, Rust, C++, MATLAB)
• Experience with precision optical mechanisms, 2-axis gimbal design for space, actuation/sensing/control
• Knowledge of line-of-sight performance budgets, harness routing, full product lifecycle
• U.S. Person required per ITAR export control regulations

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits: paid time off, medical/dental/vision, life insurance, paid parental leave
• Equity in the company
• Fast-paced startup environment focused on innovation in space technology
• Encourages non-traditional career paths and motivated individuals