Space Lead AI&T Engineer

Protingent; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Protingent is seeking a Space Lead AI&T Engineer in Los Angeles, CA. The role leads design, integration, and testing of spacecraft structures, with a focus on CAD models and GD&T, and mentorship of junior engineers.

Applicants should have 5+ years in aerospace mechanical engineering, experience with NASA GEVS and clean room/ESD protocols, and a strong track record delivering high-quality space hardware.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering.
• Experience leading space flight hardware assembly.
• 5+ years in aerospace mechanical engineering.
• Experience with spacecraft structures design, harness routing, and systems-level engineering.
• Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks, NX) and GD&T.
• Experience with NASA GEVS and clean room/ESD protocols.

Responsibilities

• Lead spacecraft mechanical assembly, integration, and environmental testing.
• Direct design and development of primary/secondary spacecraft structures.
• Develop CAD models and engineering drawings with surface finish and GD&T.
• Create mechanical assembly procedures and document results.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate subsystems.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster innovation.

Skills

Spacecraft design

Assembly leadership

CAD modeling

GD&T proficiency

ESD compliance

NASA GEVS experience

Education

Bachelor’s or advanced degree in mechanical/aerospace engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

NX

Job description

Position Title: Space Lead AI&T Engineer PositionDescription: Protingent has an exciting direct hire opportunity for a Space Lead AI&T Engineer with our client in Los Angeles, CA.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead spacecraft mechanical assembly integration and testing, including MGSE design, EGSE coordination, environmental test planning and execution, and cleanroom maintenance.
• Lead the design and development team for the primary and secondary spacecraft structures, including geometry and material selection.
• Lead the development of CAD models and engineering drawings, including surface finish and GD&T specifications.
• Develop mechanical assembly procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate structural subsystems with other spacecraft subsystems.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Document design processes, test results, and system performance.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or similar field.
• Experience leading the assembly and integration of space flight hardware.
• 5+ years of core mechanical engineering discipline experience in aerospace or related fields.
• 5+ years of practical experience delivering high-quality results in the design, assembly, and testing of spacecraft structures.
• Demonstrated expertise in structural design, harness routing, and systems-level mechanical engineering.
• Proficiency in CAD software such as Solidworks, NX, etc.
• Experience specifying and analyzing fastener torque values and material finishes (e.g. anodizing).
• Experience with the NASA GEVS standard.
• Experience working in clean room environments and adhering to ESD protocols.

Desired Job Qualifications

• End to end program leadership experience with rapid on-orbit tech demo missions.
• Understanding of EMC/EMI testing and design considerations for spacecraft.
• Advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Extensive experience in spacecraft design, with a deep understanding of spacecraft systems and subsystems.
• Experience with launch integration, including coordination with launch service providers.
• Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python, C++, or MATLAB) and space system /mission modeling.

Job Details

• Job Type: Direct Hire
• Location: Los Angeles, CA
• Salary Range: $130K-170K
• ITAR obligations are associated with this role, U.S. citizenship, U.S. legal permanent resident status, or protected person status under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a) (1), (3) is required.

About Protingent

Protingent is an Award-Winning provider of top-tier Engineering and IT talent, trusted by companies at the forefront of innovation — from Software and Aerospace to AI, Clean Tech, Medical Devices, and Connected Technologies. We’re passionate about making a positive impact by connecting exceptional talent with meaningful opportunities and helping our clients build the future.