Principal Spacecraft Mechanism Design Engineer

At Turion Space, we’re building spacecraft to secure Earth and expand humanity’s reach beyond it. As a Principal Spacecraft Mechanism Design Engineer, you will conceive, design, and implement new complex electromechanical spacecraft mechanisms.
This is a unique role that will rely on your creativity, experience, and ambition to create critical hardware as the missions increase in complexity. You’ll brainstorm concepts and solutions and generate detailed specifications & drawings and analyze static and dynamic structures to quantify performance.
This is a full-time, exempt position based at our Irvine, California headquarters.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and Development: Conceive, develop and design precision electromechanical systems for the extreme conditions encountered in space environments. Ensure designs meet mission requirements and industry standards.

• Leadership: Provide ongoing training and mentorship to junior engineers.

• Integration: Work with engineering teams to integrate mechanical systems into spacecraft and satellite platforms. Ensure compatibility with electrical, thermal, and software systems.

• Testing and Validation: Create and execute test plans for mechanical systems. Perform performance and reliability testing to validate system functionality and compliance with specifications.

• Problem-Solving: Address and resolve technical issues related to mechanical systems. Troubleshoot problems and implement corrective actions as needed.

• Documentation: Prepare and maintain accurate documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and technical manuals. Ensure all documentation meets company and industry standards.

• Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, software engineers, and mission planners, to address and resolve integration and performance issues.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.

• 15+ years of experience in Mechanical Engineering, with experience in designing and developing high precision electromechanical systems for extreme environments.

• Knowledge of mechanical system design, structural analysis, kinematics, dynamics, electric motors, actuators, and controls.

• Proficiency with engineering tools and software for design and simulation (e.g., SolidWorks).

• Experience with 3D CAD, 2D drafting, GD&T, and tolerance analysis.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly and collaborate with team members.

• Must be able to obtain a Secret and/or a TS/SCI clearance.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.

• 15+ years of experience in precision machine design.

• Experience with spacecraft and satellite systems, including an in-depth understanding of the unique requirements and challenges associated with mechanical systems for space missions.

• Expertise in mechanical systems design and integration techniques as applied to motors, electronic components, bearings, gears, power screws, springs, clutches, brakes, materials, lubrication, and coating selection.

• Familiarity with high-stress materials, thermal control systems, and space-qualified components.

• Demonstrated ability to contribute to innovative mechanical system designs and improvements.

• Advanced, hands-on skills with machine tools and various fabrication techniques.
  

  Principal Spacecraft Mechanism Design Engineer/Principal Mechanical Engineer Salary: $175,000 - $250,000 USD

ITAR Requirements:

This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. In addition to a competitive base salary and company stock, determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, and market demand, full-time employees are eligible for:​

• Equity: Receive equity in Turion Space, letting you benefit from the company's success

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents. ​

• Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan to help you plan for your future. ​

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, sick days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge. ​

• Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training, workshops, and courses to advance your skills and career growth.

• Team Building Activities: Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to foster a positive work environment. ​

We are dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching environment for our team members, recognizing that our collective success is built upon the well-being and satisfaction of each individual.

Turion Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Turion Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.