Mechanical Engineer III - Spacecraft Programs

Role Summary

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to own flight hardware development on our Spacecraft Programs. This role is built for an engineer who can take a subsystem/component from requirements to a released design, through build, integration, and test—while collaborating tightly with AIT and manufacturing.

Senior-level expectations include independent ownership of deliverables and leadership of technical execution for meaningful scopes.

Where You’ll Make an Impact

• Own mechanical components/subsystems end-to-end: requirements, design, analysis coordination, release, and integration support
• Develop CAD and drawings in Creo; apply GD&T and define inspectable requirements
• Drive interface closure: envelope/keep-outs, fastener patterns, datums, alignment needs, harness/thermal accommodations
• Support spacecraft build and integration: issue triage, rapid root-cause collaboration, and corrective design updates
• Develop and execute verification plans: functional checks, fit checks, environmental test prep support, and acceptance/qualification evidence generation
• Support design reviews (PDR/CDR), test readiness reviews, and configuration boards with clear technical content
• Coordinate with suppliers and procurement: clarify requirements, review vendor designs, and support receiving/inspection disposition

What It Takes

• Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 7+ years relevant experience with aerospace/space hardware development
• Proficiency in Creo; working knowledge of Windchill or similar PLM
• Strong GD&T fundamentals (ASME Y14.5) and drawing package quality discipline
• Experience supporting hardware through build/test cycles, not just design-in-a-vacuum
• Work location within the DMV area

Nice-to-Have Experience

• Spacecraft integration exposure: mass properties, alignment, configuration capture, as-built management
• Experience writing or reviewing work instructions / build travelers
• Familiarity with environmental testing and test readiness processes

Requirements

• 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.
• Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

Benefits

• Ownership – Real flight hardware responsibility
• Innovation – Solve challenging mechanical design, integration, and verification problems while advancing the spacecraft technologies that enable next-generation space mobility.
• Impact – Direct contribution to mission success
• Growth – Path to subsystem leadership and principal ownership
• Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation.

Location: Rockville, MD

Base Salary : $145,000 to $195,000

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.