Staff Mechanical Engineer, Research and Development

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 Staff Mechanical Engineer, Research and Development to contribute to our mission in a dynamic startup environment .

Take the #NextLeap with Lunar Outpost and work on the Pegasus LTV, which will carry NASA astronauts farther than they've ever been before on the lunar surface!

Working Conditions / Schedule: This position is required to be onsite Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Where applicable, employees may work remotely on Wednesdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additional hours may be required based on business needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Design parts and assemblies – including vehicle structures, electronics packaging, mechanisms and deployable structure s – 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 to survive anticipated load s .
• Participate in the 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 stack - up, etc.).
• Prepare mechanical engineering products for milestone and safety reviews.
• Collaborate with a team of engineers in a fast-paced environment , managing time allocations across multiple projects and ensuring 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

• 10 + 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 software
• 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 Systems
• Proficiency in Bild, GrabCAD Workbench, Git, or similar CAD management software
• P roficiency 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.