Spacecraft Mechanisms and Actuators Engineer

Apex Technology, Inc.; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% company-paid healthcare

15+ days PTO

Catered lunches and snacks

401(k) with matching

Paid parental leave

Job summary

Apex Technology, Inc. in Los Angeles is searching for a Mechanisms & Actuators Engineer to develop spacecraft electromechanical systems, particularly Solar Array Drive Assemblies (SADAs) and rotary actuators.

The ideal candidate will have a B.S. in a relevant engineering discipline and over 5 years of experience in aerospace applications. This full-time role involves collaboration across teams and offers excellent benefits including full healthcare coverage and generous PTO.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience developing electromechanical systems for aerospace.
• Strong understanding of motors, bearings, and rotating systems.
• Familiarity with vibration and thermal vacuum testing.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and test spacecraft electromechanical systems.
• Collaborate with avionics and software teams on actuator interfaces.
• Define and execute qualification testing for actuators.

Skills

Electromechanical systems design

Problem-solving skills

Cross-functional collaboration

Hands-on testing

Education

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

Job description

About the Role

Apex is seeking a highly technical Mechanisms & Actuators Engineer to support the development of spacecraft electromechanical systems, with a primary focus on Solar Array Drive Assemblies (SADAs), reaction wheels, and other high reliability mechanisms critical to spacecraft operation.

This role will own and drive the development, integration, testing, and qualification of flight mechanisms and actuator systems from early architecture through delivery. You’ll work across mechanical, avionics, controls, GNC, and production teams to develop reliable, scalable, and flight‑proven electromechanical hardware capable of surviving demanding space environments and mission lifetimes.

We’re looking for someone who understands how to design and deliver electromechanical systems, who can operate effectively in a fast‑paced spacecraft development environment.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, assemble, and test spacecraft electromechanical systems including SADAs, reaction wheels, deployment actuators, and other high‑reliability mechanisms.

• Own actuator and mechanism development from concept through qualification and flight delivery.

• Support architecture development, trade studies, component selection, and performance analysis for flight mechanisms and motor‑driven systems.

• Collaborate closely with avionics, controls, GNC, and software teams on actuator electrical, mechanical, and controls interfaces.

• Define and execute qualification and life‑cycle testing for high reliability rotary actuators

• Support mechanism integration, hardware bring‑up, troubleshooting, and environmental testing including vibe, TVAC, and life‑cycle testing campaigns.

• Drive root cause investigations and failure analysis activities related to actuator or mechanism performance.

• Develop manufacturing, assembly, and test strategies for scalable spacecraft production.

• Partner with suppliers and internal teams on component development, qualification, procurement, and hardware validation.

• Contribute to spacecraft‑level integration efforts and support flight hardware through build, test, and launch campaigns.

• Create and maintain design documentation, requirements, interface definitions, test plans, and verification reports.

Requirements

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related technical discipline.

• 5+ years of experience developing electromechanical systems, mechanisms, rotary actuators, for aerospace or other high‑reliability applications.

• Experience owning or contributing to the development and delivery of long‑life electromechanical actuators for space vehicles.

• Strong understanding of motors, bearings, geartrains, and rotating systems

• Hands‑on experience with mechanism integration, testing, troubleshooting, and hardware bring‑up.

• Familiarity with environmental qualification testing including vibration, thermal vacuum, shock, and lifetime testing.

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to debug complex system‑level issues.

• Ability to operate effectively in fast‑paced development environments with high ownership and autonomy.

• Strong communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills.

Nice to Haves

• Experience with Solar Array Drive Assemblies (SADAs), reaction wheels, control moment gyroscopes, gimbals, or deployment systems

• Familiarity with motor driver electronics, embedded control implementation, and/or motor feedback devices

• Experience with rotor dynamics analysis and/or rotary balancing techniques

• Experience developing mechanisms for high‑cycle‑life or long‑duration space missions.

• Familiarity with spacecraft environmental and qualification standards.

• Experience supporting flight hardware through integration, launch, and on‑orbit operations.

What We Offer For Full‑time Employees

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Best‑in‑class healthcare: 100% company‑paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work‑related travel

• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day

• Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family

• Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self

• World‑class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in‑person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life

• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting‑edge industries to make a lasting difference

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.