The Role
Design, build, and integrate test fixtures, tooling, and support hardware for spacecraft structures and mechanisms. Plan and support functional, environmental, and qualification tests (thermal, vibration, shock, deployment, pressure). Lead test readiness, schedules, safe operations, and develop infrastructure and roadmaps to execute spacecraft qualification.
Summary Generated by Built In
Come join us in shaping the future! Get in on the ground floor as an early member of our Mechanical team as a Test Engineer – Structures and Mechanisms developing a revolutionary satellite communications system. Connect the vision to the hardware, build it, test it and fly it.
AscendArc is a seed stage startup founded to revolutionize the satellite communications industry. We are looking for doers who want to work in a ground-breaking and fast-paced environment. Our success will depend on your energy, skill, and creativity.
Responsibilities
- Design, build, and integrate test fixtures, tooling, and support hardware to effectively test spacecraft structures and mechanisms.
- Assist responsible engineers in design and/or concepting of functional, environmental, and qualification tests, including thermal, vibration, shock, deployment, and pressure testing.
- Support test readiness reviews, drive testing schedules, and ensure safe test operations
- Develop responsive testing infrastructure, generate roadmap for executing spacecraft qualification, define resource and infrastructure needs to achieve company milestones
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
- 5+ years of experience designing and building test fixtures, tooling, and support hardware for aerospace or high-reliability systems
- Hands-on experience with test execution and familiarity with environmental and structural testing (thermal, vibration, shock, etc.)
- Strong ability to gather and interpret test requirements from cross-functional stakeholders to develop practical tooling and fixture solutions
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., NX, SolidWorks) and mechanical analysis tools
- Data acquisition and management experience
- Hands-on mindset with experience in rapid prototyping, fabrication, and iterative build-test cycles
Who We’re Looking For
We’re searching for exceptional talent at any career stage — from early-career engineers to senior and staff-level experts. Compensation will be adjusted accordingly. More than years of experience, we value high-caliber individuals with the drive and creativity to help launch Oregon’s first commercial communications satellite.
We’re looking for people who:
- Thrive in a cradle-to-grave design environment and take ownership from concept through launch.
- Bring energy, curiosity, and a responsible engineering mindset.
- Want to work alongside other exceptional people in an environment where great ideas rise to the top.
Hybrid Work
This position is based at our Beaverton office. We value the collaboration that comes from working together in person, while also supporting flexibility. Team members typically spend three days a week in the office and may work from home up to two days each week.
The base salary range for this position is $120,000-190,000/year. When determining an individual’s compensation, we consider several factors including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data, so pay for this role may vary from the amounts listed.
AscendArc is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor or legally protected status.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
- 5+ years designing and building test fixtures, tooling, and support hardware for aerospace or high-reliability systems
- Hands-on experience with test execution and familiarity with environmental and structural testing (thermal, vibration, shock)
- Ability to gather and interpret test requirements from cross-functional stakeholders to develop tooling and fixture solutions
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., NX, SolidWorks) and mechanical analysis tools
- Data acquisition and management experience
- Experience in rapid prototyping, fabrication, and iterative build-test cycles
AscendArc Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about AscendArc and has not been reviewed or approved by AscendArc.
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Fair & Transparent Compensation — Salary ranges are publicly posted for multiple roles and the company frames base pay as competitive, indicating clear pay practices. Pay bands for engineering and operations roles are disclosed to comply with transparency laws, helping set expectations upfront.
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Equity Value & Accessibility — Equity is advertised alongside salary, with stock options positioned as a way for employees to share in the company’s growth. This ownership component is highlighted in careers and job materials, signaling accessible upside participation.
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Healthcare Strength — Medical, dental, and vision coverage are listed for employees and family. Public materials consistently include these core health benefits as part of the package.
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The Company
What We Do
AscendArc is revolutionizing the satellite communications sector by creating affordable, rapidly deployable, high-bandwidth small GEO satellites with a scalable design and efficient manufacturing process, aiming to lower costs and speed deployment compared to traditional systems.
