Job Description

Mechanical Engineer - Hawthorne, CA

Location: Hawthorne HQ

Employment Type: Full-Time

Work Arrangement: On-Site

Department: Engineering

Compensation: My client welcomes candidates across a broad range of experience levels. Final compensation, title, and seniority will be determined based on qualifications. All levels include equity.

• Level 1: $90K – $110K

• Level 2: $100K – $125K

• Level 3: $130K – $160K

• Level 4: $150K – $180K

About the Role My client is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, prototyping, and flight validation of spacecraft components. This is a fast-paced, high-ownership environment where your work directly impacts mission success. You’ll be expected to deliver elegant, reliable hardware under tight timelines—balancing simplicity, analytical rigor, and creative problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the full lifecycle of spacecraft hardware—from concept to orbit
• Design, prototype, and qualify mechanical systems for flight
• Integrate subcomponents into complex assemblies with precision and speed
• Perform and correlate analysis to ensure reliability in extreme environments
• Collaborate across disciplines to deliver interdependent systems that work flawlessly

What We’re Looking For

• Proven ownership of spacecraft components from clean-sheet design to flight
• Deep proficiency in CAD and mechanical design fundamentals
• Expertise in bolted joint design and mechanical fasteners
• Strong understanding of manufacturing tolerances and shop capabilities
• Experience designing within cross-functional engineering teams

Benefits My client offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support employees and their families:

• 100% coverage of base medical, dental, and vision plans
• Access to HSA, FSA, 401K, and commuter benefits
• Unlimited paid time off, with a two-week minimum annual use
• Daily catered lunches