Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer (Early)

The role

You will develop mechanical designs and models for satellite structures, subsystems, and components. You will conduct structural analyses and optimize designs for weight, material selection, and manufacturability.

What you will do

• Develop mechanical designs and models for satellite structures, subsystems, and components.
• Conduct structural analyses to ensure compliance with performance and reliability requirements.
• Optimize designs for weight reduction, material selection, and manufacturability.
• Evaluate and select appropriate materials and processes for satellite mechanical systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate mechanical systems with other subsystems.
• Participate in the assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) process of satellite hardware.
• Perform environmental testing to validate mechanical designs.
• Prepare technical documentation, including engineering drawings, specifications, and test reports.
• Maintain accurate records of design changes, test results, and other engineering documentation.
• Generate comprehensive reports and presentations to communicate design concepts and results.

Required qualifications

• U.S. Person status is required
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• 2+ years of experience in mechanical design and analysis
• Proficiency in CAD software for 3D modeling and drafting (e.g., NX, SolidWorks)
• Strong understanding of structural analysis techniques, including finite element analysis (FEA) and hand calculations
• Strong understanding of drafting standards such as GD&T
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes for aerospace-grade materials and components
• Knowledge of environmental testing procedures and standards for space applications
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Effective communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations, such as ASME, ASTM, and NASA guidelines

Nice to have

• Master's degree
• Experience in the aerospace or satellite industry
• Familiarity with testing above is a plus

Benefits

• Equity in Apex
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents
• $100k life insurance at no cost
• Starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually
• 10 paid holidays
• 100% match on first 3% and 50% on next 2% 401(k) matching
• 8 weeks paid parental leave
• Childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks
• Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings
• Dream desk setup

Before you apply

• U.S. Person status is required to access export controlled data
• Applicants must qualify as a U.S. Person or be able to obtain required export authorizations

About the company

Apex manufactures satellite buses at scale using software, vertical integration, and hardware designed for manufacturing. The company is a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding.