Lead Mechanical Engineer, Spacecraft
$180k - $220k USD
From telescopes to software architecture, Observable Space provides the foundational elements every organization needs to operate in space. Observable Space is unlocking continuous, real-time observations of space with the industry’s first line of vertically integrated hardware and software products. The company is a leader in advanced telescope design and manufacturing in the US. Every product is part of a robust developer platform for space data applications. Observable Space’s full line of products serves all sectors of the space industry including commercial, science, education, and government customers, as well as astronomy enthusiasts discovering the cosmos.
Observable Space is backed by top institutional investors–Upfront Ventures, Oceans Ventures, Venrex, Marlinspike Partners, and Embedded Ventures.
We are seeking a highly-skilled and experienced Mechanical Engineer to lead the mechanical design, analysis, and qualification of precision large scale optical hardware for spacecraft applications. This role focuses on the development of instrument structures, mounts, and alignment-critical assemblies that must maintain performance through launch loads, vacuum, radiation, and extreme thermal cycling. You will be responsible for designing and validating optomechanical systems that preserve optical alignment and wavefront performance from ground test through on-orbit operation, working closely across our Engineering functions.
Key Responsibilities
Design and analyze precision optomechanical structures (mounts, housings, and support structures) for spacecraft payloads.
Develop detailed CAD models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks or equivalent.
Perform structural and optomechanical FEA (ANSYS or similar) to evaluate stiffness, strength, thermal distortion, and alignment stability.
Execute hand calculations and analytical modeling to validate load paths, margins of safety, and optomechanical sensitivities.
Support STOP (Structural, Thermal, Optical Performance) analysis, collaborating closely with optical and thermal engineers.
Design hardware to survive launch loads, random vibration, acoustic, and shock environments while preserving optical performance.
Develop and execute vibration, shock, and qualification test plans, including test fixture and optical alignment strategies.
Select materials, finishes, and fasteners compatible with vacuum, radiation, contamination control, and thermal cycling.
Define and control optical interfaces, alignment features, and tolerance budgets across the mechanical design.
Support optical alignment, integration, and test (AIT) activities at both subassembly and payload levels.
Interface with spacecraft bus teams to ensure proper mechanical, thermal, and structural integration of optical payloads.
Assess long-term dimensional stability, creep, and degradation effects impacting optical performance over mission life.
Help build, scale, and manage a high-performing team.
Basic Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
8+ years of experience in optomechanical or precision mechanical design for spacecraft, aerospace, or other high-reliability systems.
Strong proficiency in CAD and FEA tools (SolidWorks, ANSYS, or equivalent).
Hands-on experience designing hardware for launch vibration, shock, and thermal-vacuum environments.
Deep understanding of structural mechanics, thermal expansion, tolerance stack-ups, and alignment sensitivity.
Familiarity with space-qualified materials, coatings, fasteners, and contamination control practices.
Comfortable working iteratively, balancing precision, schedule, and risk.
Ability to operate in a fast-paced, hardware-focused environment with rapid design-build-test cycles.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Thermal Desktop, RadCAD, or equivalent spacecraft thermal analysis tools.
Direct experience performing or supporting STOP analysis for optical instruments or telescopes.
Background in optical alignment, metrology, and test support for flight hardware.
Experience with athermalized optomechanical designs and low-CTE materials (e.g., Invar, titanium, composites).
Working knowledge of NASA GEVS, ECSS, or equivalent environmental test standards.
Experience supporting flight hardware integration, qualification, and on-orbit performance assessment.
What We Offer
Competitive Compensation – A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.
Equity Opportunities – Take part in our success with stock options.
Flexible Work Environment – Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)
Unlimited PTO – Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.
Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.
Cutting-Edge Tools – Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.
Mission-Driven Culture – Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.
Inclusive Team – We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.
Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Salary Range | $180,000 - $220,000