Senior Mechanical Engineer (Avionics)

About the role

Impulse Space is hiring a Senior Mechanical Engineer for its Avionics team in Redondo Beach. You will design, build, test/analyze and integrate avionics hardware, owning mechanical designs and systems from concept through launch for next-generation advanced propulsion space vehicles, working with cross-functional engineering teams.

Key responsibilities

• Lead full-cycle development of avionics hardware from concept through launch
• Define system-level requirements and drive mechanical design decisions
• Analyze structural dynamics, thermal behavior, vibration and environmental resilience (hand calculations and FEA)
• Apply DFM and DFA principles and work with suppliers on quality and scalability
• Collaborate with electrical, propulsion, GNC and structural teams on integrated solutions
• Define build processes, write documentation, work instructions, drawings (with GD&T) and build/test plans
• Manage the mechanical interface between avionics systems and vehicle structures
• Support and lead structural and thermal qualification testing
• Lead design reviews, failure investigations and continuous improvement

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a closely related field
• 5+ years of mechanical design experience, focused on aerospace or high-performance electronics systems
• Full product lifecycle ownership, from concept through production and field support
• Preferred: Master's degree, 7 years of mechanical design and analysis with space-flown hardware, experience in vibration/thermal environments, startup or agile environment experience
• U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, protected individual status or eligibility for ITAR authorizations

Required skills

• Advanced CAD (NX, Creo, SolidWorks) and ability to lead complex assemblies and mentor juniors
• Precision machining, sheet metal fabrication and thermal management
• GD&T, tolerance stack-up analysis and mechanical reliability under dynamic loads
• Preferred: 4+ years of GD&T, FEA with FEMAP, Ansys or similar, NX and Teamcenter

What we offer

• Pay of $140,000 - $180,000 per year, depending on role, level, location and skills
• Long-term incentives such as stock options for full-time hires
• Medical, vision and dental coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan