Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer
Company Details
Astro Digital designs, builds, and operates a diverse range of small satellite systems supporting space-based turnkey missions for several business applications, including earth observation, communications, in-orbit demonstrations, risk reduction opportunities, in addition to various science and exploration applications. Astro Digital is headquartered in Santa Clara, California with infrastructure around the globe.
Position Summary
The Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer is responsible for the mechanical, structural, and thermal subsystems of the Astro Digital spacecraft. The Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer designs spacecraft hardware and GSE (ground support equipment), performs engineering analysis, and supports hardware manufacturing throughout assembly integration and test (AI&T). The ideal candidate is a hands-on problem solver and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Mechanical design of spacecraft structures, electronics enclosures, wire harness routing, and supporting GSE.
- Submit production requests and manage external machine shop vendors.
- Author integration assembly drawings and instructions for the integration team.
- Resolve mechanical integration issues during AI&T.
- Maintain mass budget and ensure spacecraft mass properties complies with spacecraft and launch vehicle specifications.
- Work with structural analysts to ensure structural integrity of the spacecraft and all components during all phases of launch.
- Plan and conduct structural qualification testing, including spacecraft level vibration test.
- Work with thermal analysts to ensure all components are maintained within acceptable temperature limits.
- Plan and conduct spacecraft level thermal testing, including thermal cycling and TVAC.
- Perform mechanical integration on an as-needed basis
Minimum Qualifications
- BS in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering or related field
- Experience working with Small Satellites or CubeSats with demonstrated on-orbit success.
- 3-5 years of experience using SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD program
- Ability to design, implement, and test structural or mechanism designs
- General understanding of spacecraft loads (quasi-static loads, random vibration, shock)
- Ability to work independently.
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with material selection and ruggedization techniques for space applications.
- Experience running structural vibration testing.
- Experience in vehicle structural and thermal analysis
