Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Observable Space; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible Hybrid Schedule

Unlimited PTO

Medical/Dental/Vision coverage

Equity opportunities

Latest hardware and software tools

Job summary

Observable Space is seeking a seasoned Mechanical Engineer to design precision mechanical and optomechanical systems for telescopes and related equipment. You’ll work with optical, electrical, and software engineers to deliver observatory‑grade platforms for ground and future space deployments.

You will contribute through CAD modeling, FEA validation, and hands‑on fabrication support, driving concepts through to production and design reviews.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent.
• 5+ years of Mechanical Engineering experience in Aerospace, Automotive, or related industry.
• Proficient in CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX).
• Knowledge of FEA (ANSYS, Nastran) and tolerance analysis.
• Hands-on fabrication, machining, welding, drilling, or mechanical assembly.
• Excellent communication and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize mechanical and optomechanical components for telescopes.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models, drawings, and BOMs.
• Perform FEA simulations for stress, thermal, and vibration.
• Collaborate with optics and software teams for system integration.
• Support from concept to production, including design reviews.

Skills

Strong communication

Team collaboration

Passion for aerospace/observational技

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

NX

ANSYS

Nastran

DFM

Fabrication & Machining

Job description

About Observable Space

At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.

We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.

Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, visit observable.space.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly-motivated and experienced Mechanical Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you’ll design precision mechanical and optomechanical systems for telescopes and related equipment. You’ll work with a multidisciplinary team of optical, electrical, and software engineers to deliver observatory-grade systems for ground-based and potential future space-based deployment.

What You'll Bring

• Design and optimize mechanical and optomechanical components (e.g., telescope tubes, mounts, enclosures, optical supports).


• Create detailed 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs).


• Conduct FEA simulations for stress, thermal, and vibrational environments.


• Collaborate with optics and software teams to ensure mechanical compatibility with imaging, tracking, and sensing subsystems.


• Support the full product lifecycle, from concept design and prototyping to testing and production.


• Participate in and contribute to design reviews (PDR, CDR, etc.) and internal documentation.


• Provide engineering support during fabrication, QC, assembly, and system validation.

What You'll Do

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent.


• 5+ years in a Mechanical Engineering role in Aerospace, Automotive, or a related industry.


• Strong proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX, or similar).


• Understanding of FEA (ANSYS, Nastran, etc.), tolerance analysis, and DFM principles.


• Hands‑on experience with fabrication, machining, welding, drilling, and/or mechanical assembly.


• Effective communicator and collaborator.


• Demonstrated passion for aerospace or observational technologies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Grasp of materials, fasteners, coatings, and alignment techniques.


• Understanding of system engineering workflows, interface control documents, and verification processes.


• Basic scripting or automation (Python, MATLAB) for design or test workflows.

What We Offer

• Competitive Compensation – A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.


• Equity Opportunities – Take part in our success with stock options.


• Flexible Work Environment – Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)


• Unlimited PTO (exempt only) – Take the time you need with our flexible, trust‑based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.


• Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.


• Cutting‑Edge Tools – Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.


• Mission‑Driven Culture – Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real‑world impact.


• Inclusive Team – We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.

Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.