Sr Mechanical Engineer, Vehicle Structures Team (2 openings)

Astra Space Inc; Alameda (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Vision and dental

401K

Lunch provision

Snacks and drinks

Job summary

A leading aerospace company is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to own vehicle components from design to production. You will analyze and test components, collaborate with teams, and help define system-level engineering efforts. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in mechanical engineering, proficiency in CAD, and a strong background in manufacturing processes. This full-time position offers a competitive salary ranging from $140,000 to $180,000 per year along with comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience in aerospace, automotive, or defense.
• Proven track record in owning hardware from concept through production.
• Experience in structural and thermal simulation.

Responsibilities

• Own components of our vehicle and create design solutions.
• Analyze components using FEA and hand calculations.
• Lead hardware development through prototyping and environmental testing.

Skills

Mechanical engineering experience

CAD proficiency (NX, SolidWorks)

Strong FEA fundamentals

Manufacturing processes knowledge

Hands-on building skills

Team-first mindset

Education

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

Job description

The Opportunity

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight‑proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

The Vehicle Structures Team is a cross‑functional group of engineers and technicians working to launch Astra's Rocket 4. The team develops the components, primary structures, sub‑assemblies and complete stage integration to achieve orbital performance. Our team touches all aspects of system design including preliminary trade studies and system level definition as well as qualification and mission support.

How You’ll Fulfill Your Mission

Design & Analysis

• Own components/sub‑assemblies of our vehicle to create design solutions from initial concept to detailed solid models and released drawing packages including documentation of assembly.
• Analyze components using FEA, CFD and hand calculations to inform mechanical, thermal, and pneumatic designs. Perform tolerance analyses to validate design robustness.
• Create development, qualification and acceptance testing plans for your system and support execution.
• Collaborate with a cross‑disciplinary team of system owners including electrical, mechanical, controls, and software engineers to support launch operations; conduct design reviews and implement feedback/obtain stakeholder buy‑in and verify and document cross‑team requirements are satisfied.
• Challenge the existing assumptions and design choices, bring your own design experience and influences to our systems.
• Help define requirements and contribute to system‑level engineering efforts.

Development & Testing

• Lead hardware development through prototyping, environmental testing, and hot‑fire campaigns.
• Drive root cause investigations and implement corrective actions.

Systems Integration

• Collaborate with propulsion, test, and structures teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Deliver complete engineering documentation to support manufacturing and test operations.

Why We Value You

• 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience across aerospace, automotive, defense, or similar high‑reliability fields.
• Proven track record in owning hardware from concept through test and production.
• Proficient in CAD (NX, SolidWorks, etc.) and generating detailed drawings with GD&T.
• Strong FEA fundamentals and experience in structural and thermal simulation.
• Deep understanding of manufacturing processes including machining, welding, brazing, and heat treating.
• Hands‑on builder who’s comfortable wrenching, debugging, and working closely with technicians.
• Humble, team‑first mindset - you’re comfortable with self‑direction, but also take feedback well and step up wherever the team needs help.
• B.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering discipline.

Desired Multipliers

• Experience designing and qualifying high‑pressure (6000+ psi) or cryogenic fluid systems (LOX, RP‑1, etc.)
• Background in complex mechanical mechanisms (e.g., Safe & Arm Devices, Arm/Fire Devices, actuators)
• Ownership of complete Tech Data Packages, compliance plans, and program reviews (PDR/CDR/TRR)
• Familiarity with ASME, NASA, or MIL standards and how to apply them in hardware design.
• Startup or early‑stage company experience, thriving in fast‑paced, ambiguous environments.
• Demonstrated ability to lead failure investigations and implement corrective actions.
• Track record of mentoring engineers and leading multi‑disciplinary efforts.

The pay range for this role is: $$140,000 - $180,000 per year.

Salary and Benefits

We’re competitive in compensation and offer equity as part of the package. We have great benefits that include health, vision, dental, and 401K in comparison to other startups. We provide lunch and there’s plenty of snacks and drinks to get you through the day.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

ITAR Requirements:

This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicant’s ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.

San Francisco Applicants:

Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.