Mechanical Engineer for AI Satellite Systems

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to own the full lifecycle of hardware for the Starmind AI satellites in Bastrop, TX. You will lead the design, analysis, testing, and production planning for large deployable radiators, solar arrays, and payload mechanisms, coordinating across teams to meet program goals.

The role requires CAD/FEA experience, strong GD&T knowledge, and 1+ years in mechanical design or related fields, with a path toward advanced systems leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline required.
• Experience with CAD and FEA software packages.
• 1+ years of professional experience in mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, or manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Own hardware from conceptual design through high volume production and on‑orbit operation for the Starmind constellation.
• Develop design criteria, collaborate on requirements, and drive system‑level optimization.
• Rapidly iterate on designs and analysis to inform high level systems trades and steer overall product direction.
• Design for extreme high volume – drive holistic DFM to reduce part and process count and ensure quality and production metrics.
• Establish an efficient product lifecycle from supply chain to final integration balancing cost and complexity.
• Perform environmental and performance testing to validate analyses and criteria.
• Own product delivery timelines through conception, design, assembly, and launch.
• Demonstrate ownership of product outcomes at every stage of development and production.

Skills

CAD

FEA

NX

GD&T

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Master’s degree in engineering or related field

Tools

NX (3D CAD)

FEA software

Job description

SpaceX is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to own the full lifecycle of hardware for the Starmind AI satellites in Bastrop, TX. You will lead the design, analysis, testing, and production planning for large deployable radiators, solar arrays, and payload mechanisms, coordinating across teams to meet program goals.

The role requires CAD/FEA experience, strong GD&T knowledge, and 1+ years in mechanical design or related fields, with a path toward advanced systems leadership.