Senior Mechanical Engineer, Valves & Fluid Systems

Astra; Alameda (CA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join their Valves & Fluid Systems team. This role involves designing critical fluid components, leading development from concept to flight, and mentoring junior engineers. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical engineering, particularly within aerospace or defense, and experience with CAD tools. Astra values diversity and encourages qualified applicants to apply.

Qualifications

• 4+ years in mechanical engineering within aerospace or defense.
• Experience owning hardware from concept to production.

Responsibilities

• Design and analyze valves, actuators, and fluid system components.
• Lead hardware development, testing, and root cause investigations.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Collaboration

Flexibility

Education

B.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering

Tools

CAD

NX

SolidWorks

Job description

Senior Mechanical Engineer, Valves & Fluid Systems

Join Astra as a Senior Mechanical Engineer, Valves & Fluid Systems. Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. We offer low-cost orbital launch services and industry-leading electric propulsion systems for satellites.

The Opportunity

As a Senior Mechanical Engineer in Astra’s Valves & Fluid Systems team, you will lead the design, development, and qualification of critical fluid components for launch success, including high-pressure valves, cryogenic plumbing, and quick-disconnects. This hands-on role requires technical expertise, collaboration, and flexibility to support hardware from concept to flight.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and analyze valves, actuators, and fluid system components
• Perform structural, thermal, and tolerance analyses
• Define requirements and contribute to system-level engineering
• Lead hardware development, testing, and root cause investigations
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams for system integration
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team standards and improvements

Qualifications

• 4+ years in mechanical engineering within aerospace, defense, or similar fields
• Experience owning hardware from concept to production
• Proficiency in CAD (NX, SolidWorks) and GD&T
• Strong FEA skills in structural and thermal analysis
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, brazing, and heat treating
• Hands-on experience with hardware assembly, debugging, and working with technicians
• B.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering

Preferred Skills

• Experience with high-pressure (6000+ psi) or cryogenic fluid systems
• Design of complex mechanisms like Safe & Arm Devices
• Ownership of technical data packages and compliance documentation
• Familiarity with ASME, NASA, MIL standards
• Startup experience and leading failure investigations
• Mentoring and leading multi-disciplinary efforts

Compensation

The salary range is $130,000 - $160,000 per year, targeted for the San Francisco Bay Area. Additional earnings such as bonuses and benefits are not included in this range. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of salary requirements.

Additional Information

This role requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions (ITAR, EAR). Applicants must be U.S. Persons or able to obtain necessary licenses. Astra values diversity and is committed to inclusive hiring practices.