Apex

Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer

Apex$165K — $195K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • U.S. Person status required for export-controlled data access.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; Master's degree preferred.
  • 5+ years of mechanical design and analysis experience, ideally in aerospace or satellite industry.
  • Proficient in CAD software for 3D modeling (e.g., NX, SolidWorks).
  • Strong knowledge of structural analysis techniques, including FEA and hand calculations.
  • Familiar with drafting standards such as GD&T.
  • Understanding of aerospace-grade manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

  • Develop mechanical designs and models for satellite structures and components.
  • Conduct structural analyses to meet performance and reliability standards.
  • Optimize designs for weight, materials, and manufacturability.
  • Evaluate and select materials for satellite systems.
  • Collaborate to integrate mechanical systems with electrical and thermal subsystems.
  • Participate in assembly, integration, and testing of satellite hardware.
  • Perform environmental testing to validate mechanical designs.

Benefits

  • Receive equity in Apex, sharing in the company’s success.
  • 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and dependents.
  • Comprehensive PTO starting at 15 days, increasing to over 20 annually, plus 10 holidays.
  • Generous 401(k) with 100% match on first 3% and 50% on next 2%.
  • 8 weeks paid parental leave and childcare reimbursement for travel.
  • Daily catered lunches and unlimited snacks provided.
  • Monthly social events and community-building activities for families.
  • Flexible work environment with a state-of-the-art office.
Full Job Description
About the Role

Apex is seeking a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to join our satellite engineering team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing mechanical designs and models for satellite structures, subsystems, and components. You will conduct structural analyses to ensure performance and reliability, while optimizing designs for weight, material selection, and manufacturability.

Responsibilities:
  • Develop mechanical designs and models for satellite structures, subsystems, and components.
  • Conduct structural analyses to ensure compliance with performance and reliability requirements.
  • Optimize designs for weight reduction, material selection, and manufacturability.
  • Evaluate and select appropriate materials and processes for satellite mechanical systems.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate mechanical systems with other subsystems (e.g., electrical, thermal, propulsion).
  • Participate in the assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) process of satellite hardware.
  • Perform environmental testing, such as statics, vibration, shock, and thermal vacuum tests, to validate mechanical designs.
  • Prepare technical documentation, including engineering drawings, specifications, and test reports.
  • Maintain accurate records of design changes, test results, and other engineering documentation.
  • Generate comprehensive reports and presentations to communicate design concepts, analysis results, and recommendations to stakeholders.
  • Stay updated 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 in mechanical design and analysis, preferably in the aerospace or satellite industry.
  • 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 a plus.
  • 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.
Compensation

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.

#LI-MO1

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.

About Apex

Industry
Founded
2003

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