Mechanical Engineer III - Tank Development Lead

Quantum Space•Hawthorne, MD

About The Position

Quantum Space is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to lead tank development for its Propulsion Tanks Team. The role owns mechanical components and subsystems throughout the hardware development lifecycle, from requirements definition and detailed design through manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing. The engineer will help develop reliable, high-performance propulsion tank hardware that meets technical, structural, and mission requirements for next-generation spacecraft systems. The position works closely with mechanical and propulsion engineering, assembly, integration and test (AIT), manufacturing, and supplier teams. It calls for strong mechanical design expertise, hands-on aerospace hardware development experience, and the ability to independently lead technical execution in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. The role is based in Rockville, Maryland, or Hawthorne, California. The stated base salary range is $125,000–$175,000. Applicants must meet U.S. Government space technology export-control eligibility requirements: be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required U.S. Department of State authorizations.

Requirements

Bachelor's or master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
At least 7 years of relevant experience with aerospace or space hardware development.
Proficiency in Creo.
Working knowledge of Windchill or a similar PLM system.
Familiarity with propulsion system component design, fabrication, and qualification.
Familiarity with aerospace pressure vessels and qualification.
Strong GD&T fundamentals, including ASME Y14.5, and disciplined drawing-package quality.
Experience supporting hardware through build and test cycles, not solely design work.
Meet the stated U.S. Government space technology export-control eligibility requirements.

Nice To Haves

Spacecraft and/or launch vehicle integration exposure, including mass properties, alignment, configuration capture, and as-built management.
Knowledge of various FEA tools and structural testing methods.
Experience with various weld types and applications, such as TIG, laser, and friction stir welding.

Responsibilities

Own mechanical components and subsystems end-to-end, including requirements, design, coordination of analysis, release, and integration support.
Develop CAD models and drawings in Creo, apply GD&T, and define inspectable requirements.
Drive interface closure for envelopes and keep-outs, fastener patterns, datums, alignment needs, and harness and thermal accommodations.
Support spacecraft build and integration through issue triage, root-cause collaboration, and corrective design updates.
Develop and execute verification plans, including functional checks, fit checks, environmental test preparation support, and generation of acceptance and qualification evidence.
Support PDR and CDR design reviews, test readiness reviews, and configuration boards with clear technical content.
Coordinate with suppliers and procurement to clarify requirements, review vendor designs, and support receiving and inspection disposition.