Apex is looking for a Senior Mechanical Engineer - Ground Systems (MGSE) to join our team and help design, build, and support the equipment that makes spacecraft integration, testing, and launch possible. You'll work hands-on with hardware and collaborate closely with engineering, test, and manufacturing teams to ensure that Apex spacecraft are supported by reliable, efficient, and scalable mechanical ground support systems.
Responsibilities:- Design mechanical ground equipment using 3D CAD tools (NX)
- Create part drawings, assembly models, and bills of materials
- Develop and review load paths, fixture stability, and stress margins using both hand calculations and FEA when appropriate
- Experience with the design, analysis, build, and test of advanced space hardware
- Support integration, assembly, and test campaigns with real-time mechanical expertise
- Create documentation packages to detail MGSE use cases/capabilities, analysis, etc.
- Build and refine procedures for the use of MGSE in cleanroom and floor operations
- Collaborate cross-functionally with systems, electrical, software, and test teams to ensure successful hardware integration
Requirements: - U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
- 5+ years of experience in mechanical design or test support (master's degree may substitute for experience)
- Proficiency in 3D CAD software (CATIA preferred)
- Basic understanding of mechanical design principles, tolerancing, and structural analysis
- Familiarity with manufacturing methods, materials, and inspection processes
- Ability to communicate clearly with both technical and non-technical teams
- Experience working with Mechanical Ground Support Equipment (MGSE) in aerospace or satellite environments
- Familiarity with lifting/rigging hardware, fluid systems, or pneumatic systems
- Experience performing structural analysis with FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN)
- Exposure to integration & test operations, cleanroom practices, or launch campaigns
- Comfortable working hands-on with hardware and supporting floor operations
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.
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What We Offer For Full-time Employees:- Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
- Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
- Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
- Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
- 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
- Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
- Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
- Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
- World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
- Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference
Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.
