Mechanical Engineer II – Propulsion Spacecraft Fluid Systems

Xona; Burlingame (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Xona is looking for a Mechanical Engineer to enhance their satellite hardware team in Burlingame, CA. In this role, you will focus on designing and qualifying fluid delivery systems for satellite applications.

This position demands proficiency in CAD software, hands-on experience in aerospace environments, and the ability to collaborate seamlessly with cross-disciplinary engineering teams.

This is an onsite role that offers opportunities to work on cutting-edge aerospace systems.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience designing fluid or gas delivery systems.
• Hands-on experience with solenoid valves, flow controllers, and pressure regulation hardware.
• Understanding of flow behavior across pressure regimes.

Responsibilities

• Design and simulate fluid delivery systems.
• Specify and qualify fluid system components for spaceflight use.
• Develop and assemble ground testing infrastructure.

Skills

Designing fluid or gas delivery systems

Problem-solving ability

Attention to detail

Proficiency with CAD tools

Education

B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

LabVIEW

Python

Job description

Overview

Xona is the navigational intelligence company bringing real-time, centimeter-level certainty to any device, anywhere on Earth.

With Pulsar – the world’s most advanced PNT satellite infrastructure in Low Earth Orbit – Xona will offer a future-proof, backwards-compatible global positioning system optimized for absolute precision, superior power, and robust protection.

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join Xona’s satellite hardware team in Burlingame, CA. In this role, you will design, build, and qualify fluid delivery and pressurized gas systems for satellite environments. You will own this subsystem end-to-end, from architecture to component selection through qualification testing and integration with the satellite bus.

You will work closely with structures, electrical, and software engineers to deliver reliable, flight-qualified hardware. This is a hands-on role spanning mechanical design, test, and process development, with opportunities to contribute throughout the development lifecycle from early prototyping through spacecraft integration and into production.

Responsibilities

• Design and simulate fluid delivery systems spanning high pressure to free molecular flow regimes.
• Select, specify, and qualify fluid system components (valves, transducers, filters, regulators, etc.) for spaceflight use.
• Develop and assemble ground testing infrastructure including enclosures and safety-critical containment hardware for high-pressure test operations.
• Specify and implement flow control logic, including valve sequencing, setpoint management, and fault protection.
• Develop and integrate automation software for ground test operations and system control.
• Write work instructions, test procedures, and assembly documentation for flight hardware.
• Ensure compliance with DOT certification standards and applicable regulations for pressurized system transport and operation.
• Own CAD models, drawings, and BOMs for fluid system assemblies.

Required Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 2–5 years of experience designing fluid or gas delivery systems, preferably in aerospace, semiconductor, or related industries.
• Experience with pressurized system design, leak detection, and proof or burst testing.
• Hands-on experience with solenoid valves, flow controllers, and pressure regulation hardware.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (SolidWorks or similar).
• Understanding of flow behavior across pressure regimes, including continuum and free molecular flow.
• Experience designing and executing qualification or acceptance test programs.
• Strong problem-solving ability and attention to detail.
• Ability to work onsite in Burlingame, CA.

Desired Qualifications

• Familiarity with high vacuum systems and vacuum-compatible materials and processes.
• Experience with automation or control software for fluid systems (LabVIEW, Python, or similar).
• Familiarity with tubing standards, fittings (e.g., Swagelok, AN/MS), and tube routing practices.
• Working knowledge of DOT certification and hazardous pressure system regulations.
• Experience writing work instructions or procedures for flight hardware.
• Familiarity with spacecraft integration and mechanical design for space environments.

For U.S. Roles: To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States (i.e. Green Card holder), or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

For U.K. Roles: To comply with U.K. regulations, this role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks, and successful candidates must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC).

For Canada Roles: Successful candidates must obtain and hold a security clearance at the reliability status level, and pass security assessment for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and ITAR.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.