Spaceflight Mechanical Engineer – Design & Analysis

Astrion; Mountain View (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Astrion is seeking a Mechanical Engineer for NASA Ames in Mountain View, CA, to design and test mechanical systems for spacecraft, payloads, and ground support equipment. You will perform structural analysis, develop subassemblies, and collaborate across engineering teams to ensure performance in launch and space environments.

The role requires a strong background in mechanical design, extensive experience with CAD/CAE tools, and the ability to manage complex tasks under deadlines.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in mechanical, mechatronic, or similar engineering with emphasis on mechanical design and analysis.
• 5–10 years of related experience in mechanical/structural/aerospace engineering for spaceflight systems.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling and analysis software (Creo, Windchill, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Nastran/Patran or similar).
• Experience with configuration management of mechanical designs and GSE.
• Knowledge of launch and space environments.
• Strong time management, detail oriented and able to prioritize tasks.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; able to present to diverse audiences.
• Self-motivated and independent thinker.

Responsibilities

• Design, modeling, and analyses of mechanical parts and subassemblies.
• Develop mechanical subsystems including structure, panels, mechanisms, fasteners, and mounts.
• Define work products and architecture to align with requirements and concepts.
• Perform structural/dynamic analyses (FEA) to ensure survival in space environments.
• Iterate for materials, loads, manufacturability, and assembly including thermal management and cable routing.
• Select and analyze mechanical GSE including mounts, tooling, and transport cases.
• Create and manage mechanical interfaces for components and subsystems.
• Collaborate with electrical, thermal, C&DH, ADCS/GNC, and other teams to optimize design.
• Work with machinists to produce models and drawings for manufacturing.
• Generate assembly, integration, and test procedures for components and subsystems.
• Evaluate environmental test data to validate designs.
• Forecast, track performance, and provide insights with project managers and staff.
• Identify tasks and schedule impacts; communicate deconflicted plans.
• Prepare monthly and milestone reports; interface with partners.

Skills

3D CAD modeling

Configuration management

Spaceflight environments

Data presentation

Time management

Communication skills

Self-motivation

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical/mechatronic engineering or equivalent

Tools

Creo

Windchill

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Nastran/Patran

Job description

Astrion is seeking a Mechanical Engineer for NASA Ames in Mountain View, CA, to design and test mechanical systems for spacecraft, payloads, and ground support equipment. You will perform structural analysis, develop subassemblies, and collaborate across engineering teams to ensure performance in launch and space environments.

The role requires a strong background in mechanical design, extensive experience with CAD/CAE tools, and the ability to manage complex tasks under deadlines.