Mechanical Engineer

At LeoLabs, we’re building the living map of activity in space. Through our proprietary global radar network and AI-enabled analytics platform, we collect millions of measurements daily on more than 25,000 objects in low Earth orbit (LEO). Our radar-powered intelligence protects billions in assets, monitors adversarial behavior, and ensures safe operations for commercial and government missions.

We’re not just building technology, we are redefining global security, safety, and transparency in space. As orbital activity accelerates and threats grow more complex, LeoLabs is a trusted partner for Space Domain Awareness, Space Traffic Management, and Satellite Operations for top-tier space operators and allied defense organizations.

If you're looking to work on mission-critical challenges at the forefront of aerospace, national security, and AI, your impact starts here.

At LeoLabs, the Hardware Engineering Team designs, develops, manufactures, and deploys the advanced radar systems which provide persistent orbital intelligence to our customers worldwide. As a Mechanical Engineer on the Hardware Engineering team, you will support the design and development of radar hardware operating at UHF, S-Band, and additional frequency bands.  This role demands cross-functional collaboration within a high-performing and fast-paced team.  Occasional international travel may be required.  This is an in-person role on site at our headquarters in Menlo Park, CA and will report to the Hardware Engineering Manager. 

 

Responsibilities 

·       Contribute to the development of core mechanical structures and systems  

·       Mechanical design of components and subassemblies 

·       Close collaboration with electrical engineers and our construction team 

·       Structural, kinematic, and thermal analysis including simulation 

·       Support prototype builds, integration, and testing activities 

 

Basic Qualifications 

·       BSME (or equivalent) with 3-5 years of relevant experience 

·       Proficiency in SolidWorks or equivalent MCAD software 

·       Working knowledge of machining and manufacturing processes 

·       Experience designing mechanical components, cables, and electronics enclosures 

·       Hands on prototyping, assembly, and integration experience 

 

Preferred Qualifications 

·       MSME or equivalent advanced degree 

·       Experience working on RF applications, especially shielding and gasketing 

·       Experience designing for outdoor or harsh environments 

·       Familiarity with environmental or qualification testing 

 

Within 1 month, you will: 

·      Complete our onboarding program designed to get you up to speed on our business, vision and team 

·      Gain an understanding about how your role fits into LeoLabs broader organization 

·      Learn about our existing projects and product roadmap 

 

Within 3 months, you will: 

·       Have designed prototype components for a new design   

·       Be working with manufacturers on costing and preparing for initial prototype builds 

·       Have moved subcomponent designs into manufacturing to support a prototype build 

 

Within 6 months, you will: 

·       Have built a prototype component of a new system 

·       Have completed a Bill of Materials for this first design 

·       Be working on additional designs for new systems 

 

Within 12 months, you will: 

·       Move multiple projects into the production phase of development 

·       Contribute to new designs on the product roadmap 

 

 

ITAR REQUIREMENTS 

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. More information regarding ITAR can be found at DDTC’s websitehere.  

Global workforce: flexible remote/hybrid opportunities

Work on complex, meaningful missions with real-world impact

Unlimited paid time off for most roles

Competitive salary and equity packages

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

Access to the forefront of commercial space operations and defense innovation

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.