Space Science Instrumentation Mechanical Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This role involves designing and building unique scientific instruments for NASA spacecraft that enable groundbreaking scientific discovery throughout the solar system and beyond, as well as developing advanced space systems that support critical defense missions. The engineer will work in a highly collaborative environment with engineers from multiple disciplines to solve complex technical challenges and deliver flight hardware. The position leads the design, development, integration, and delivery of spaceflight hardware for both civil space exploration and national security missions. The engineer will collaborate with systems, optical, mechanical, structural, and thermal engineers, and a companion group providing electronics, FPGA, firmware, and software expertise. The team designs, analyzes, builds, integrates, tests, and delivers high-performance spaceflight instruments and payloads for demanding environments. The work spans the complete program lifecycle, from concept development and proposal efforts through design, fabrication, environmental qualification, integration, launch support, and on-orbit operations. Programs support NASA's science portfolio, including missions like Parker Solar Probe, DART, Europa Clipper, Dragonfly, and future flagship missions, while also advancing innovative technologies and operational capabilities for Department of War and other national security space missions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
At least 1 year of professional experience in mechanical design and/or analysis.
Familiarity with PTC and/or Solidworks CAD software.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, and demonstrated success working within a team environment.
Basic knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
Willing and able to travel occasionally to NASA facilities and sub-contractor sites.
Willing and able to support shift work occasionally during Integration and Test events.
Able to obtain a Top Secret level security clearance. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
2 years experience in mechanical design and/or analysis.
Experience in space hardware systems development.
Hands-on experience with laboratory testing, instrumentation, or hardware integration.
Experience with structural and thermal analysis.
Basic knowledge of design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles.
An active Secret or Top Secret security clearance.

Responsibilities

Design, draft, and oversee fabrication of parts and sub-assemblies.
Perform mechanical analyses and/or interface with thermal and stress engineers to verify design integrity.
Design mechanical GSE and test fixtures.
Work closely with scientists to determine appropriate mechanical requirements.
Provide input to instrument proposals and assist in development of new and/or improved instrument concepts.