Mechatronics Engineer - Launch Systems
Job Type: Full-Time, On-Site
Location: Moriarty, NM
About the Position:Sceye develops high-altitude platform systems (HAPS) designed to operate at the stratosphere's edge. Getting a HAPS safely and reliably from the ground to altitude starts with a flawless launch-and the launch system electronics are mission-critical. As Mechatronics Engineer for Launch Systems, you will own the electromechanical release interface that separates HAPS from the launch system at the right moment, under the right conditions, every time. You will rework and harden existing electronics, integrate new sensors and wireless systems, and build simulation tools to validate launch dynamics before hardware is ever at risk. Alongside this focused engineering work, you will participate directly in vehicle assembly for individual missions.
What You'll Do: Electromechanical Release Interface- Own the design and integration of the electrical-to-mechanical interface responsible for HAPS release from the launch system.
- Define release actuation logic, fault detection, and inhibit/arm sequences to meet safety and reliability requirements.
- Collaborate with structural and systems engineers to ensure interface loads, timing, and environmental conditions are correctly accounted for.
Electronics Rework & Reliability- Audit current launch electronics and identify failure modes, single points of failure, and durability gaps.
- Lead hardware rework efforts: PCB modifications, connector upgrades, harness improvements, and enclosure hardening for field conditions.
- Establish qualification and acceptance test criteria for reworked assemblies; maintain revision-controlled hardware documentation.
Sensor Integration & Data Input- Identify external data inputs needed to condition or gate the release event (e.g., load, position, wind, vehicle attitude).
- Select, integrate, and validate sensors providing those inputs into the release electronics.
- Develop signal processing and threshold logic to translate sensor data into reliable go/no-go release decisions.
Wireless Communication- Improve wireless command-and-control range and reliability for launch electronics.
- Evaluate and implement radio frequency solutions appropriate for open-field launch operations.
- Develop link budget analyses and conduct range testing under representative field conditions.
Launch Dynamics Simulation- Build simulation models of launch motions and forces experienced by the HAPS during the release sequence.
- Use simulation outputs to bound structural loads, validate release timing windows, and identify edge cases before live testing.
- Update models as hardware evolves and validate against instrumented test data.
HAPS Assembly Support- Participate in physical assembly of HAPS vehicles for individual missions alongside the broader assembly team.
- Provide launch system expertise during integration to ensure compatibility between vehicle and launch interface hardware.
What We're Looking For:- B.S. in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or closely related field.
- 3+ years of experience in electromechanical systems design, hardware bring-up, or embedded systems integration.
- Hands-on PCB rework and electronics troubleshooting experience.
- Experience integrating sensors (load cells, IMUs, encoders, or similar) into control or monitoring systems.
- Familiarity with RF/wireless communication systems and link budget fundamentals.
- Ability to read and produce electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
Preferred Qualifications:- Experience with separation systems, pyrotechnic or electromechanical release mechanisms, or aerospace GSE.
- Background in dynamics modeling or multibody simulation (MATLAB/Simulink, Adams, or similar).
- Familiarity with DO-160 or MIL-STD environmental qualification testing.
- Prior experience in a launch, range, or field operations environment.
- Exposure to lighter-than-air, stratospheric, or HAPS vehicle programs a plus.
Working Conditions:Full-time, on-site in Moriarty, NM. Work spans lab bench electronics and field operations at the launch site. Must be comfortable working outdoors in variable weather conditions during launch campaigns. Physical requirements include lifting up to 50 lbs and working within or around large vehicle structures. Some travel to supplier sites or external test facilities may be required.
What We Offer:At Sceye, we're building more than high-altitude platforms-we're building a workplace where people (and their pups) thrive. Here's what you'll enjoy:
- Chef-Prepared Lunches - Fresh, onsite meals to keep you fueled and focused.
- Snacks & Refreshments - Enjoy a variety of snacks and drinks available throughout the day.
- Wellness Perks - Access to a gym, pickleball court, and an outdoor dog kennel.
- Dog-Friendly Environment - Bring your four-legged friends to work and enjoy a pet-welcoming space.
- Comprehensive Health Coverage - Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance, with over 82% of premiums covered-and 100% for everything else.
- 401(k) with Match - Company contributions that are yours from day one.
- High-Performance Culture - Join a collaborative, inclusive environment where your work helps shape the future of aerospace.
