Space Vehicle Mechanisms Mechanical Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

3d•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; orbital mechanics; 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 Space Vehicle Mechanisms Mechanical Engineer (Engineering Specialist - Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering) within the Space Mechanisms Section, you will work with the section managers and other engineering departments to conduct multidisciplinary analyses that 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. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field
Six years of applicable professional experience in space vehicle, launch vehicle, or missile system program support in areas of physical sciences or engineering
Experience with designing, analyzing, testing, or manufacturing moving mechanical assemblies
Experience with CAD (SolidWorks or equivalent)
Experience with finite element analysis
Experience with Python, MATLAB, or equivalent
Willingness to occasionally travel and/or work off-business hours to support customer needs, 5-10% (as required)
This position requires 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

Advanced degree in a STEM field
Experience with deployables (motors, gears, hinges, launch restraints), bearings (gimbals, reaction wheels, CMGs), separation systems, 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 leading technical teams and mentoring junior staff
Active TS/SCI security clearance

Responsibilities

Evaluate moving mechanical assemblies for space vehicle, launch vehicle, and missile system programs
Review and assess designs, analysis results, test plans, command media, and applicable standards
Perform analyses and modeling of moving mechanical assemblies, deployment, and separation systems
Work closely with program offices, department technical staff, and management to resolve technical issues and assure mission success
Prepare and provide reports and briefings to customers and other stakeholders
Occasionally travel to contractor sites to attend design reviews and witness hardware assembly and testing
Lead technical efforts, mentor junior staff, and work with 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