Mechanical Systems Design Engineer

Astro Mechanica • San Francisco, CA

5d • $135,000 - $170,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Astro Mechanica is seeking an experienced Mechanical Systems Design Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is someone who can take full ownership of hardware design from concept to production and has a deep understanding of their impact on surrounding systems. Technical challenges are resolved from first principles. Your work at Astro Mechanica will have a direct impact on the configuration and performance of the Astro Mechanica demonstrator aircraft. In this role, your mission will be to shepherd novel airframe integration and component hardware from whiteboard design through analysis, qualification, vehicle integration, and aircraft flight.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
• 2–5+ years of experience designing, integrating, or testing fluid or mechanical systems
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, precision measurement and GD&T
• Proficiency in 3D CAD tools (NX, CATIA V5, SolidWorks, or similar) for routing, packaging, and component design
• Solid understanding of mechanical system, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer fundamentals and analysis methods
• Hands-on experience with hardware— fabrication, assembly, or testing
• Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks)
• Comfortable operating in a fast-moving, evolving development environment

Responsibilities

• Perform trade studies and first-order analyses to inform component design and system architecture decisions
• Complete detailed component designs and drawings. Validate your designs with structural, thermal, and/or fluid analyses
• Collaborate closely with propulsion, structures, avionics, controls, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless component and system integration
• Work with suppliers to specify, select, and qualify off-the-shelf and/or custom components
• Develop and conduct hardware test plans and analyze data to verify requirements and performance metrics meet design intent
• Provide hands-on support during prototyping, vehicle builds, ground testing, and flight test campaigns
• Participate in technical reviews, generate clear documentation, and contribute to safety and hazard analyses

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
• Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
• Flexible work environment

What This Job Offers

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