Ground System Mechanical Engineer

Description

Reusable systems with frequent launch cadence are the key to seamlessly connecting Earth and space.  A highly operable, reliable, and robust ground system is an integral part of a fully reusable launch system. As a design engineer for ground mechanical systems, you will be responsible for supporting GSE and test structure design for our test site in Moses Lake, WA and our launch complex at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. While the role will be based out of Kent, WA, there will be some travel to both sites. You will be responsible for all phases of the product lifecycle including architecture definition, component selection, detailed mechanical design, component procurement, integration, commissioning, and operations. As part of a small, well-supported team, you will have access to the resources you need to get the job done right while simultaneously boosting your skills at a pace that can’t be matched in most other roles. You must be ready to stay focused, move fast, self-direct, and learn on the fly. 

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain interface requirements and performance requirements for the ground mechanisms in coordination with the launch vehicle development team.
• Develop mechanism conceptual architecture and kinematic layout to implement functional requirements.
• Mechanical and structural design of vehicle primary structure qualification rig.
• Perform analysis to size mechanism components for launch vehicle transportation, handling, hold-down and release, umbilical retraction, and other critical applications.
• Specify and select components from vendors, then manage the procurement process.
• Design components and routed systems, from initial layout through detailed component design, and create CAD models and drawings using Siemens NX.
• Support technicians with mechanical installation and integration of your designs, both with engineering oversight and hands-on assembly as needed.
• Develop the test plan for commissioning and activation of your systems, and execute the testing in coordination with the launch site development and operations team.
• Conduct test and launch operations on console in an engineering support and/or operational role.
• Continuously maintain and improve the design configuration and physical configuration of the system throughout ongoing operations and maintenance.

 

Qualifications  

• 3+ years of experience in a related role working on hydraulic systems and mechanisms in an aerospace or similar high-performance application (oil & gas, heavy equipment, energy systems, etc.)
• Practical and theoretical knowledge of mechanical design, kinematics, rotating and sliding joints, and material selection
• Proficient with 3D CAD software (Siemens NX preferred)
• Knowledge of the working principles of common mechanism components such as piston actuators, plain and rolling-element bearings, linkage mechanisms, hydraulic pumps, and electric motors
• Ability to prioritize and execute
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Ability to lead
• Ability to follow
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or similar field.

 

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision and basic life insurance
• 401(k) match
• Paid time off
• Flexible scheduling
• Equity

Compensation

Target Levels:

• Level 3: $125,600 – $188,300
• Level 4: $153,500 – $230,100