Senior Space Vehicle Mechanisms Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly-trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments. The Mechanical Systems Department (MSD) team has 20-25 engineers responsible for providing technical mission assurance support to ensure the integrity and reliable operation of moving mechanical assemblies (MMAs) and explosive devices used during separation and deployment events of space vehicles, launch vehicles, and missile systems. The Space Mechanisms Section is responsible for the evaluation of requirements, design, analysis, and testing of space vehicle MMAs in accordance with industry standards. This section works closely and coordinates with other Aerospace technical disciplines, program offices, and contractors in support of our customer’s mission needs. As a Senior Space Vehicle Mechanisms Engineer (Senior Engineering Specialist - Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering) within the Space Mechanisms Section, you will work with the section managers and other engineering departments to conduct multi-disciplinary analyses and lead efforts required to ensure mission success for current and future missions. This position leverages experience in the areas of moving mechanical assemblies, deployment and separation systems, and explosive devices, to support our programs and departmental responsibilities. This position is full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA., requiring at least 4 days onsite.

Requirements

Advanced degree in a STEM field
10 years of applicable professional experience in space vehicle, launch vehicle, missile system program or other technical areas supporting the field of physical sciences or engineering
Experience with design, analysis, test, and manufacture of moving mechanical assemblies
Experience with CAD (SolidWorks or equivalent)
Experience with finite element analysis
Experience with Python, MATLAB
Willingness to occasionally travel and/or work off-business hours to support customer needs, 5-10% (as required)
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government.
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

Nice To Haves

PhD in a STEM field is preferred
Experience with deployables (motors, gears, hinges, launch restraints), bearings (gimbals, reaction wheels, CMGs), separation systems, and or valves
Knowledge of moving mechanical assembly standards (AIAA-S-114A or NASA-STD-5017B) and environmental testing standards (SSC-S-016 or NASA GEVS)
Experience with multi-body dynamics analysis (ADAMS or equivalent)
Experience with command-line interface, high performance computing, Git
Experience with relevant Mechanical Assemblies (MA) supply chains
Ability to expand the business base into other areas
Flexibility in leading very diverse teams including analysis, lab, and mixed analysis with physical evaluation teams
Self-directed with the capacity and a proven record of developing projects and advancing new ideas
Experience leading technical teams and guiding/mentoring early-career staff
Active TS/SCI security clearance

Responsibilities

Lead efforts and perform evaluations of moving mechanical assemblies for space vehicles, launch vehicles, and missile system programs
Lead efforts and provide in-depth technical support for interdisciplinary and interdepartmental activities and capable of working with both analysis and laboratory teams to evaluate issues impacting moving mechanical assemblies
Review and assess designs, analysis results, test plans, command media, and applicable standards
Work closely with program offices, department technical staff, government customers, and management to resolve technical issues and assure mission success
Prepare and provide reports and briefings to customers and other stakeholders
Travel to contractor and vendor sites to attend design reviews and witness hardware assembly and testing
Develop problem definitions, problem-solving approaches, new analytical tools and innovative approaches while obtaining buy-in from staff and the leadership team
Lead technical efforts, provide guidance and mentor junior staff, and work with other senior staff in support of program tasks

Benefits

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect