Lead Spacecraft Engineer (Mechanisms and Actuators)

Apex Technology•Los Angeles, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. About the Role Apex is looking for a Lead Mechanisms and Actuators Engineer to support our current and next generation satellites. This person will own the design, development, and delivery of flight-critical spacecraft mechanisms from concept through on orbit operation. This role will drive architecture, analysis, hardware execution, and cross functional integration for mechanisms including deployables, actuators, and precision moving assemblies. You will operate with high ownership, leading complex hardware programs while partnering closely with electrical, avionics, structures, and manufacturing teams to deliver reliable, production-ready systems at scale.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or related field)
4+ years of experience designing and delivering mechanical systems or mechanisms
1+ years of professional experience leading technical teams and/or projects
Experience owning hardware from concept through test or production
Strong fundamentals in mechanical design, structures, and system integration
Experience designing mechanisms such as actuators, deployables, geartrains, bearings, or precision assemblies
Proficiency with CAD (NX, CATIA, SolidWorks) and FEA tools (ANSYS, Nastran, etc.)
Experience developing and executing hardware test campaigns
Demonstrated ability to move quickly, take ownership, and solve complex problems in fast-paced environments
Experience working with suppliers and managing external partners
Exposure to spacecraft, launch vehicles, or other high-performance hardware systems

Nice To Haves

Experience with spacecraft or aerospace mechanisms
Familiarity with environmental testing (vibe, thermal, vacuum)
Hands-on experience with machining, assembly, or hardware bring-up
Scripting or analysis tools (Python, MATLAB, etc.)

Responsibilities

Own end-to-end design of spacecraft mechanisms (actuators, deployables, moving assemblies) from concept through flight, including architecture, requirements, CAD, drawings, and specifications
Drive trade studies (mass, performance, reliability, manufacturability), make vs. buy decisions, and supplier execution while partnering cross-functionally (avionics, power, GNC, structures, manufacturing) to deliver fully integrated systems
Perform first-principles analysis and FEA (structural, kinematic, dynamic) to size and validate components such as gears, bearings, screws, and load-bearing structures
Develop and execute test plans (development, qualification, acceptance), analyze results, and iterate designs based on data and flight feedback
Own hardware through build, integration, and test, diagnosing issues quickly and driving solutions in fast-paced, hands-on environments
Lead a small team through design reviews, set technical direction, and mentor engineers while driving decisions that balance performance, risk, and schedule

Benefits

Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social gatherings for you and your family
Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
World-class Playa Vista office with EV chargers, with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference