Mechanical Engineer - Structures & Mechanisms (Level I, II, or Senior)

Space Tango LLC • Lexington, KY

2d

About The Position

The Mechanical Engineer – Structures & Mechanisms is responsible for the design, analysis, fabrication, assembly, and testing of mechanical structures, mechanisms, fixtures, and high-reliability hardware. Working closely with cross-functional teams, this role transforms early concepts into manufacturable, testable, and flight-ready mechanical systems that support Space Tango's spaceflight payloads and facilities. Travel may be required to support launches, customer activities, partner integrations, and mission operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field with relevant design or analysis experience.
• Experience designing mechanical components and assemblies using SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
• Understanding of engineering drawings, GD&T, tolerance stackups, and mechanical design fundamentals.
• Familiarity with FEA or other engineering analysis methods.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience assembling, integrating, or troubleshooting hardware.
• Clear written and verbal communication and the ability to work effectively across disciplines.
• Attention to detail, commitment to quality, and a practical approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced development environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with aerospace, robotics, automation, laboratory, or other precision mechanical systems.
• Experience with structural, vibration, thermal, shock, or environmental testing.
• Familiarity with engineering materials, manufacturing processes, and mechanical hardware selection.
• Experience supporting prototypes through verification and flight readiness.
• Familiarity with NASA or aerospace design standards and configuration management practices.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical components and assemblies, including brackets, enclosures, seals, interfaces, mechanisms, fixtures, and ground-support equipment.
• Develop and maintain SolidWorks models, assemblies, drawings, simulations, and inspection documentation.
• Perform and support structural analyses, including static, nonlinear, vibration, and shock FEA, with attention to model setup, mesh convergence, and validation.
• Apply GD&T, tolerance stackups, material selection, and manufacturing knowledge to produce practical, reliable designs.
• Support structural, tolerance, and mechanism trade studies with guidance from senior engineers.
• Work with vendors and internal teams to quote, fabricate, modify, and inspect machined, sheet metal, 3D-printed, and laser-cut parts.
• Support hands-on assembly, integration, troubleshooting, fit checks, functional and environmental testing, and failure investigations.
• Contribute to design reviews, assembly procedures, test plans, and verification activities.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, science, manufacturing, and test teams; communicate design decisions, results, and issues clearly.
• Apply spaceflight practices for configuration control, cleanliness, material compatibility, safety, and reliability.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level