Principal Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Programs

Quantum Space•Rockville, MD

1d•$145,000 - $195,000

About The Position

Quantum Space is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer for Advanced Programs to drive mechanical architectures for next-generation spacecraft concepts—where requirements are evolving, the trade space is wide, and rigorous engineering judgment matters. This is a principal-level role: you will own ambiguous problems, set technical direction, and lead cross-functional execution toward buildable designs.

Requirements

BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field
10+ years mechanical engineering experience, with sustained ownership of complex hardware development
Broad mechanical systems knowledge (structures, mechanisms, packaging, integration realities)
Strong communication and leadership without relying on org-chart authority
Comfort operating in ambiguity and driving crisp decisions with incomplete data
Work location within the LA area
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Nice To Haves

Spacecraft mechanism design (release devices, deployment, latching, pointing structures)
Experience supporting environmental testing and verification closure
Creo/Windchill experience and ability to guide design quality standards

Responsibilities

Lead mechanical architecture and trade studies: packaging, mechanism concepts, structural layout, thermal hardware accommodation, serviceability, and integration strategy
Own subsystem/interface definitions and drive closure with systems engineering: ICD inputs, keep-outs, access constraints, mass properties, alignment and stability needs
Drive mechanical design maturation from concept to preliminary/detailed design: requirements, sizing logic, margins and assumptions, verification strategy
Lead risk identification and mitigation planning (materials, joints, mechanisms, contamination, alignment, thermal distortion, integration sequence)
Support prototype builds and rapid iteration: design-to-test loops, test learning incorporation, design updates
Partner with procurement and suppliers: SOW technical inputs, technical evaluation, vendor coordination, design for manufacturability feedback loops
Deliver review-quality content: architecture rationale, risk posture, verification approach, and build/test readiness