Space Systems Mechanical Engineer - Flight Hardware Lead

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 290,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University 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, mechanical, structural, thermal, and manufacturing engineers.

Responsibilities include ensuring mission-capable mechanical systems, driving interfaces, schedules, mass budgets, and risk mitigation while supporting launch, cruise, and

Qualifications

• BS in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering
• 5+ years of experience leading space mission projects
• Ability to lead a major flight subsystem through concept, design, analysis, test, and integration
• Experience managing schedules and reporting deficiencies and accomplishments
• Experience working on technical hardware development across organizations
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Willing to travel to suppliers and sponsors, present at design reviews, and adapt to testing schedules
• Eligibility for a Secret security clearance (U.S. citizenship)

Responsibilities

• Ensure mechanical systems meet mission requirements across teams
• Coordinate flight, mechanical, thermal, and other subsystems across disciplines
• Develop interfaces, influence schedules and budgets, and provide technical oversight
• Manage mass budgets across system elements
• Contribute to risk management and data flow across organizations affecting launch and flight operations

Skills

Mission leadership

Systems engineering

Technical oversight

Communication skills

Travel readiness

Security clearance readiness

Education

BS in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

MS or PhD in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Job description

The Johns Hopkins University 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, mechanical, structural, thermal, and manufacturing engineers.

Responsibilities include ensuring mission-capable mechanical systems, driving interfaces, schedules, mass budgets, and risk mitigation while supporting launch, cruise, and