Senior Mechanical Engineer – Ground Systems, MGSE

Apex Technology•Los Angeles, CA

About The Position

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. About the Role Apex is looking for a Senior Mechanical Engineer – Ground Systems (MGSE) to join our team and help design, build, and support the equipment that makes spacecraft integration, testing, and launch possible. You’ll work hands-on with hardware and collaborate closely with engineering, test, and manufacturing teams to ensure that Apex spacecraft are supported by reliable, efficient, and scalable mechanical ground support systems.

Requirements

U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
5+ years of experience in mechanical design or test support (master’s degree may substitute for experience)
Proficiency in 3D CAD software (CATIA preferred)
Basic understanding of mechanical design principles, tolerancing, and structural analysis
Familiarity with manufacturing methods, materials, and inspection processes
Ability to communicate clearly with both technical and non-technical teams
Experience working with Mechanical Ground Support Equipment (MGSE) in aerospace or satellite environments
Familiarity with lifting/rigging hardware, fluid systems, or pneumatic systems
Experience performing structural analysis with FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN)
Exposure to integration & test operations, cleanroom practices, or launch campaigns
Comfortable working hands-on with hardware and supporting floor operations

Responsibilities

Design mechanical ground equipment using 3D CAD tools (NX)
Create part drawings, assembly models, and bills of materials
Develop and review load paths, fixture stability, and stress margins using both hand calculations and FEA when appropriate
Experience with the design, analysis, build, and test of advanced space hardware
Support integration, assembly, and test campaigns with real-time mechanical expertise
Create documentation packages to detail MGSE use cases/capabilities, analysis, etc.
Build and refine procedures for the use of MGSE in cleanroom and floor operations
Collaborate cross-functionally with systems, electrical, software, and test teams to ensure successful hardware integration

Benefits

Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social gatherings for you and your family
Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
World-class Playa Vista office with EV chargers, with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference