Senior Mechanical Test & Automation Engineer, Space Systems

vardaspace; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Varda is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design & Test Engineer, Automation, to build bespoke test infrastructure for in‑space hardware qualification and production.

You will design and own ground support equipment, integrate mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems, and advance test platforms from concept through commissioning. This role expects hands-on engineering in a fast‑paced startup environment and close collaboration with propulsion, avionics, and manufacturing teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years in mechanical design or industrial automation.
• Proficient with SolidWorks or NX CAD.
• Experience wiring cabinets, PLCs, harnesses and connectors.
• Experience with Altium or EPLAN; migrating to Beckhoff is a plus.
• Hands-on with high‑pressure gas or fluid systems.
• Experience in environmental testing (TVAC, thermal cycling, vibration).
• Experience with propulsion test stands or complex test infrastructure.
• Familiarity with EtherCAT, Modbus, RS-232/485 or similar protocols.
• Exposure to modern PLC ecosystems, especially Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 with IEC 61131-3.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain test systems and GSE for flight hardware qualification and manufacturing.
• Aim for >99% uptime and reliable performance of test infrastructure.
• Serve as Responsible Engineer for test infrastructure including centrifuges, TVACs, and gas benches.
• Design cabinets, wire panels, and oversee end-to-end implementation from concept to commissioning.
• Collaborate with propulsion, avionics, GNC, and manufacturing teams to meet timelines.
• Read and adapt Varda's PLC framework and EtherCAT tooling to evolving needs.
• Promote sustainable engineering practices and maintain thorough documentation.

Skills

SolidWorks

NX CAD

EtherCAT experience

Beckhoff PLC familiarity

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Altium

EPLAN

Beckhoff TwinCAT 3

PLC programming

Job description

Varda is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design & Test Engineer, Automation, to build bespoke test infrastructure for in‑space hardware qualification and production.

You will design and own ground support equipment, integrate mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems, and advance test platforms from concept through commissioning. This role expects hands-on engineering in a fast‑paced startup environment and close collaboration with propulsion, avionics, and manufacturing teams.