DescriptionDo you want to design and build unique scientific instruments for NASA spacecraft that enable groundbreaking scientific discovery throughout the solar system and beyond?
Are you passionate about strengthening our nation's security by developing advanced space systems that support critical defense missions?
Do you enjoy working in a highly collaborative environment with engineers from multiple disciplines to solve complex technical challenges and deliver flight hardware?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer ready to take on new challenges as part of our team leading the design, development, integration, and delivery of spaceflight hardware for both civil space exploration and national security missions. You will work alongside systems, optical, mechanical, structural, and thermal engineers, in partnership with our companion group, SRX, which provides electronics, FPGA, firmware, and software expertise.
Together, we design, analyze, build, integrate, test, and deliver high-performance spaceflight instruments and payloads that operate in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. Our work spans the complete program lifecycle-from concept development and proposal efforts through design, fabrication, environmental qualification, integration, launch support, and on-orbit operations. Our programs support NASA's science portfolio, including missions such as Parker Solar Probe, DART, Europa Clipper, Dragonfly, and future flagship missions, while also advancing innovative technologies and operational capabilities for Department of War and other national security space missions.
As a mechanical engineer you will...- Design, draft, and oversee fabrication of parts and sub-assemblies.
- Perform mechanical analyses and/or interface with thermal and stress engineers to verify design integrity.
- Design mechanical GSE and test fixtures.
- Work closely with scientists to determine appropriate mechanical requirements.
- Provide input to instrument proposals and assist in development of new and/or improved instrument concepts.
QualificationsYou meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...- Possess a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
- Atleast 1 year of professional experience in mechanical design and/or analysis.
- Are familiar with PTC and/or Solidworks CAD software.
- Have excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, and have demonstrated success while working within a team environment.
- Have basic knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
- Are willing and able to travel occasionally to NASA facilities and sub-contractor sites.
- Are willing and able to support shift work occasionally during Integration and Test events.
- Are able to obtain a Top Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...- Possess a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
- 2 years experience in mechanical design and/or analysis.
- Have experience in space hardware systems development.
- Have hands-on experience with laboratory testing, instrumentation, or hardware integration.
- Have experience with structural and thermal analysis.
- Have basic knowledge of design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles.
- Have an active Secret or Top Secret security clearance.
Minimum Rate$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate$195,000 Annually
