Mechanical Engineer, Prototyping/Rapid Design

Are you passionate about shaping the future of humanity's presence in space? Lunar Outpost, an industry leader in space robotics and planetary vehicles, invites you to join our team! Lunar Outpost is dedicated to creating a permanent presence in space, while also driving positive impacts here on Earth. Currently, we are seeking a Mechanical Engineer, Prototyping/Rapid Design to contribute to our mission in a dynamic startup environment.

The main responsibilities of a Mechanical Engineer, Prototyping/Rapid Design include:

Key Responsibilities

Design parts and assemblies – including vehicle structures, electronics packaging, mechanisms and deployables – applying best practices in CAD for parts and assemblies to ensure robustness and reliability in complex designs.
Perform basic loads and stress analysis (FEA and hand-calcs) to optimize parts for weight savings, and to demonstrate designed parts and assemblies will survive anticipated loads.
Participate in selection of materials, hardware, actuators, sensors, etc.
Inspect and assemble hardware of various types.
Participate in rapid prototyping efforts and test events to validate concepts quickly and cost-effectively.
Ensure mechanical designs comply with applicable NASA standards (mechanisms approaches, structural margin, tolerance stackup, etc.).
Prepare mechanical engineering products for milestone and safety reviews.
Collaborate with a team of engineers in an fast-paced environment, managing time allocations across multiple projects and ensure adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
Develop manufacturing plans for parts using a range of processes, including CNC milling, 3D printing, welding, turning, sheet metal bending, and water-jetting/laser-cutting.

Required Qualifications

0-3 years of relevant mechanical engineering experience
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
Proficiency in using SolidWorks for design of parts, assemblies, drawings, etc.
Proficiency in setting up and interpreting Finite Element Analysis (FEA) models and analysis results
Proficiency in CAM and slicing softwares
Proficient in creating part drawings
Proficient in GD&T and design for manufacturing/assembly
Prior experience maintaining CAD files/drawings in configuration management environment
Demonstrated capability to rapidly create prototypes/proof of concepts
Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and driven to meet critical deadlines
Excellent organization and time management skills
Excellent written and oral communication skills
U.S. Person

Preferred Qualifications

CSWP certificate from Dassault Systemes
Proficiency in Bild, GrabCAD Workbench, Git, or similar CAD management software
Proficiency in CAM software (e.g., HSMWorks or MasterCAM)
Experience designing or maintaining automobiles (shop, formula, baja, track, etc.)
Experience designing for human-factors and ergonomics
Proficiency in prototype manufacturing techniques (CNC, welding, etc.)
Relevant experience in technology, hardware, and/or spaceflight startup environment
Prior experience on space programs designing mechanical hardware
Proficiency in use of trade studies as a decision-making aid
Prior experience in aerospace startup environment
Relevant experience with NASA and Government customers, deliverables, reviews, and standards
Familiarity with standard aerospace review process – MCR, PDR, CDR, etc.

Compensation & Benefits:Compensation level and base salary are competitively structured and thoughtfully determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, education, and the scope of the role.

Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision benefits, with 70% of premiums covered by the employer
Paid time off: Three (3) weeks per year of vacation
Retirement plan: Up to 4% employer match on 401(k) contributions
Paid holidays: 11 company-recognized holidays
Parental leave
Educational reimbursement opportunities to support company objectives, continued learning, and career development

Lunar Outpost Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Lunar Outpost Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employees, including executives and human resources personnel, are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism and treat others with dignity and respect in accordance with this policy.
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