Senior Spacecraft Mechanisms Engineer
Apex
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Posted on Thursday, August 22, 2024
Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.
For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.
Apex manufactures these satellite buses as scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.
We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.
We are seeking an experienced spacecraft mechanisms engineer to join our team and own the development of the various mechanisms that will be used across our various spacecraft platforms.
Responsibilities:
- Develop mechanisms for satellite applications, starting from clean sheet through delivered flight hardware with focus on performance, reliability, weight, and manufacturability
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define requirements and integrate mechanical systems into a flight vehicle.
- Evaluate and select appropriate materials & processes for mechanisms.
- Perform environmental testing such as static, vibration, thermal vacuum, shock, life testing to validate design.
- Maintain accurate documentation of design, test results, and other engineering artifacts
- Generate comprehensive reports and presentations to communicate design concepts, analysis results, and recommendations to stakeholders.
- Stay up to date with the latest advancements in satellite engineering and mechanical design technologies.
- Identify areas for improvement in design methodologies, manufacturing processes, and quality control.
- Contribute to research and development projects aimed at enhancing satellite performance and capabilities.
Requirements:
- U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. Master's degree is a plus.
- 5+ years of experience analyzing, designing, building, and testing mechanisms for space applications
- Strong understanding of mechanism design principles, including material selection, manufacturing processes, testing/system validation campaigns
- Proficiency in CAD software for 3D modeling and drafting (e.g., NX, SolidWorks).
- Strong understanding of structural analysis techniques, including finite element analysis (FEA) and hand calculations.
- Strong understanding of drafting standards such as GD&T.
- Familiarity with manufacturing processes for aerospace-grade materials and components.
- Knowledge of environmental testing procedures and standards for space applications. Familiarity with testing above is preferred.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
- Effective communication skills to convey complex technical information to diverse audiences.
- Attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality work.
- Familiarity with industry standards and regulations, such as ASME, ASTM, and NASA guidelines.
Salary Range: $165,000 - $195,000 a year
The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range and excludes additional benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.
Benefits
Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We offer the following benefits:
- Shared upside: receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create.
- Best-in-class healthcare, dental, vision, and life insurance plans. The primary's premium is 99%+ covered.
- Enjoy our comprehensive PTO package, fostering employee well-being.
- Competitive 401(k) plan and matching.
- Paternity/maternity leave.
- Daily lunch, unlimited snacks, and regular office BBQs!
- Your dream desk setup, tools, and whatever else you need to be your most productive self.
- A world class office located in Culver City, filled with amazing coworkers and social gatherings for you and your family.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.