Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer

Umbra • Reston, VA

1d • $150,000 - $200,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Umbra is an American space technology company that develops systems ranging from sensors to spacecraft. The Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer will join a multidisciplinary engineering team to develop next-generation space systems and mechanisms. The role involves designing, prototyping, building, and testing hardware using first-principles engineering in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

This is an on-site position based at one of Umbra’s office locations in Santa Barbara/Goleta, California; Arlington, Virginia; or Reston, Virginia. The engineer may occasionally support launch and test campaigns outside regular hours, including evenings and weekends.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field.
• 5–8+ years of professional experience in aerospace, mechanical, and/or manufacturing engineering.
• Strong multidisciplinary understanding of mechanisms and mechanical systems.
• Hands-on experience manufacturing and assembling parts using various methods and standards.
• Proficiency in CAD software and experience with design and drafting to ASME Y14.5 standards.
• Expertise in first-principles analysis, including hand calculations and Finite Element Analysis (FEA).
• Excellent problem-solving skills, including the ability to independently research, diagnose, and clearly explain technical challenges and solutions.

Nice To Haves

• 12+ years of professional experience in aerospace, mechanical, and manufacturing engineering.
• Desire to thrive in a fast-paced, highly collaborative team environment.
• In-depth knowledge of space launch requirements and processes.
• Experience working with RF devices, understanding of their basic principles, and familiarity with relevant analysis software.
• Familiarity with printed circuit boards (PCBs), electronics assemblies, and harnessing.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, Arduino, or MATLAB.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and test spacecraft hardware and mechanisms.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and refine requirements.
• Develop initial design concepts and physical prototypes.
• Work with the Chief Engineer and Systems Architects to optimize designs for performance and manufacturability.
• Create detailed design documentation, including drawings, design guides, and Interface Control Documents (ICDs).
• Develop and execute work instructions, test plans, and test reports.
• Partner with technicians and manufacturing engineers to troubleshoot and resolve hardware issues.
• Provide mechanical engineering support to other engineering teams as needed.
• Occasionally support launch and test campaigns outside regular hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Perform other duties as required.

Benefits

• Flexible Time Off
• Sick, Family & Medical Leave
• Employer-funded medical, dental, vision, life, LTD, and STD coverage
• Employee-funded voluntary life, critical illness, accidental, hospital indemnity, and pet insurance
• 401(k) with a 3% non-elective company contribution
• Stock options
• Free parking
• Free lunch in the office daily

What This Job Offers

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