Lead Mechanical Engineer, Compute Systems

About the role

Cowboy Space Corp. is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to own the structural and thermal‑mechanical design of space‑based compute hardware. The role combines high‑reliability mechanical architecture, thermal management, and hands‑on integration for payloads operating in Low Earth Orbit.

Key responsibilities

• Define and drive the mechanical architecture of compute hardware, including chassis, PCB retention, connector interfaces, and thermal solutions.
• Conduct system‑level trade studies on mass, packaging, and thermal performance.
• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, setting technical direction and review standards.
• Develop and maintain mechanical drawings, GD&T specifications, and interface control documents for internal and vendor production.
• Perform structural and thermal analyses, validating designs against mission requirements.
• Plan and execute mechanical integration and environmental qualification tests (vibration, shock, thermal‑vacuum).
• Represent the mechanical team in design reviews and cross‑functional discussions.

Required profile

• Extensive experience with high‑reliability space systems or comparable high‑performance applications.
• Proven track record delivering end‑to‑end mechanical development of electronics packaging or compute hardware.
• Ability to lead a multidisciplinary engineering team and collaborate with electrical, thermal, and spacecraft system groups.

Required skills

• Mechanical design and chassis development
• Thermal management for space hardware
• Structural and thermal analysis
• GD&T and detailed mechanical drawing creation
• Interface Control Document (ICD) development
• Mechanical integration and test planning
• Environmental qualification testing (vibration, shock, thermal‑vacuum)

What we offer

• Work on cutting‑edge space compute hardware
• Collaborative environment with top aerospace talent
• Competitive compensation and equity participation