Space Science Instrumentation Mechanical Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a Mechanical Engineer to lead design, development, integration, and delivery of spaceflight hardware for civil space exploration and national security missions.

You will collaborate with systems, optical, structural, and thermal engineers, coordinate with SRX electronics, and contribute to proposals while ensuring instrument concepts meet demanding performance and qualification requirements for NASA missions such as Parker Solar Probe, DART,

Qualifications

• Possess a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• At least 1 year of professional mechanical design/analysis experience.
• Familiar with PTC and SolidWorks CAD software.
• Strong interpersonal and written/verbal communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
• Willing to travel to NASA facilities and sub-contractor sites.
• Willing to support shift work during Integration and Test events.
• Eligible for U.S. citizenship and Top Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design, draft, and oversee fabrication of parts and sub-assemblies.
• Perform mechanical analyses and interface with thermal and stress engineers.
• Design mechanical GSE and test fixtures.
• Work closely with scientists to determine mechanical requirements.
• Provide input to instrument proposals and assist in development of new concepts.

Skills

Mechanical design

Analytical skills

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

PTC CAD

SolidWorks CAD

Job description

Description

Do you want to design and build unique scientific instruments for NASA spacecraft that enable groundbreaking scientific discovery throughout the solar system and beyond?

Description

Do you want to design and build unique scientific instruments for NASA spacecraft that enable groundbreaking scientific discovery throughout the solar system and beyond?

Are you passionate about strengthening our nation's security by developing advanced space systems that support critical defense missions?

Do you enjoy working in a highly collaborative environment with engineers from multiple disciplines to solve complex technical challenges and deliver flight hardware?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer ready to take on new challenges as part of our team leading the design, development, integration, and delivery of spaceflight hardware for both civil space exploration and national security missions. You will work alongside systems, optical, mechanical, structural, and thermal engineers, in partnership with our companion group, SRX, which provides electronics, FPGA, firmware, and software expertise.

Together, we design, analyze, build, integrate, test, and deliver high-performance spaceflight instruments and payloads that operate in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. Our work spans the complete program lifecycle—from concept development and proposal efforts through design, fabrication, environmental qualification, integration, launch support, and on-orbit operations. Our programs support NASA's science portfolio, including missions such as Parker Solar Probe, DART, Europa Clipper, Dragonfly, and future flagship missions, while also advancing innovative technologies and operational capabilities for Department of War and other national security space missions.

As a mechanical engineer you will...

• Design, draft, and oversee fabrication of parts and sub-assemblies.
• Perform mechanical analyses and/or interface with thermal and stress engineers to verify design integrity.
• Design mechanical GSE and test fixtures.
• Work closely with scientists to determine appropriate mechanical requirements.
• Provide input to instrument proposals and assist in development of new and/or improved instrument concepts.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Possess a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
• Atleast 1 year of professional experience in mechanical design and/or analysis.
• Are familiar with PTC and/or Solidworks CAD software.
• Have excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, and have demonstrated success while working within a team environment.
• Have basic knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
• Are willing and able to travel occasionally to NASA facilities and sub-contractor sites.
• Are willing and able to support shift work occasionally during Integration and Test events.
• Are able to obtain a Top Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Possess a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• 2 years experience in mechanical design and/or analysis.
• Have experience in space hardware systems development.
• Have hands-on experience with laboratory testing, instrumentation, or hardware integration.
• Have experience with structural and thermal analysis.
• Have basic knowledge of design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles.
• Have an active Secret or Top Secret security clearance.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].

APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$85,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$195,000 Annually