Job Description

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Alameda, CA | Full-Time | On-Site

Build the systems that make spaceflight possible.

Our client is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to design, analyze, and deliver the mechanical and fluid systems behind launch operations—everything from cryogenic propellant loading and high-pressure plumbing to structural components and ground/test infrastructure. Youll own hardware from clean-sheet design through prototyping, test, and integration, working side-by-side with propulsion, avionics, test, and manufacturing team.

If you thrive on complex engineering problems, fast iteration, and hands-on hardware work, this role is for you.

What Youll Do

• Own end-to-end design of mechanical and fluid systems including valves, actuators, plumbing, mechanisms, and structures
• Create and maintain 3D CAD models, detailed drawings, and GD&T; manage P&IDs and flow diagrams as needed
• Perform and interpret structural, thermal, and fluid analyses to validate performance and ensure safety margins
• Drive prototyping, build support, and integration, including hands-on troubleshooting on the floor and during testing
• Plan and support system-level test campaigns (qualification, acceptance, and troubleshooting); provide field/launch support when required
• Define operating procedures including startup/shutdown and off-nominal or emergency conditions
• Partner cross-functionally with propulsion, test, avionics, and manufacturing to enable buildable, testable designs
• Produce clear documentation: requirements, design reviews, test plans, nonconformances/corrective actions, and compliance packages

What Were Looking For (Required)

• 3–6+ years of mechanical design experience in aerospace, robotics, automotive, energy, or similarly rigorous hardware environments
• Demonstrated ability to take designs from concept prototype test production
• Proficiency with CAD tools such as NX, SolidWorks, or Creo, and comfort with drawing release workflows
• Working knowledge of FEA and/or thermal analysis (commercial or internal tools)
• Experience with high-pressure and/or cryogenic fluid systems
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline
• Comfortable working hands-on (prototyping, assembly support, test setup, troubleshooting)

Nice to Have (Preferred Qualifications)

• Familiarity with relevant standards such as ASME B31.3, welding standards (e.g., AWS), or aerospace safety practices
• Experience with 6000+ psi systems and/or propellants like LOX, RP-1, or comparable cryogenic/hazardous fluids
• Background in startup / rapid prototyping environments with high ownership and fast iteration cycles
• Strong root cause analysis and corrective action leadership (failure investigations, containment, long-term fixes)
• Experience mentoring junior engineers or leading cross-functional technical efforts

Why This Role

Youll be trusted to make design decisions that directly affect safety, reliability, and mission success—while building real hardware at speed.

ITAR / Export Controls

This position is subject to U.S. export control regulations, including ITAR and EAR Employment is contingent upon the candidates status as a U.S. Person or ability to obtain an appropriate export license, along with required background checks and (where applicable) eligibility for government contracts or a security clearance.

Per ITAR, a documented U.S. Person is:

• A U.S. citizen, or
• A U.S. permanent resident (green card holder), or
• A person granted refugee or asylee status in the United States