Mechanisms Manufacturing Engineer - Design and AIT

Mechanisms Manufacturing Engineer

Midland, Texas

Are you an early-career engineer looking to help shape the future of satellite communications?

An innovative space technology company is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Mechanisms Manufacturing Engineer to support the assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) of spacecraft mechanisms. The candidate will work hands-on in a dynamic environment, collaborating closely with design, test, and production teams to ensure successful build, qualification, and delivery of space mechanisms and subsystems.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide manufacturing and test engineering support to Production during build, integration, and verification phases
• Perform and lead mechanism-level and subsystem-level tests; develop testing requirements, materials, processes, and tooling (vibration, shock, TVAC, assembly)
• Participate in and execute design, analysis, and system trade studies to determine mechanism AIT strategies at system and spacecraft levels
• Provide inputs to Design Engineering to optimize manufacturing flow, cost, and layout
• Prepare detailed product and process reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing data
• Execute design and analysis using sound engineering principles while adhering to company standards and program requirements
• Troubleshoot and investigate anomalies and failures, perform root-cause analysis, and drive resolution
• Participate in iterative mechanism design improvements based on findings in test and production

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Experience

• Minimum of 2–5 years of relevant experience in aerospace or precision hardware assembly/test

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with space-qualified mechanisms (e.g., release devices, actuators, hinges, latches, deployment systems)
• Familiarity with root cause and corrective action (RCCA) methodologies and nonconformance resolution
• Working knowledge of ECAD/MCAD integration, configuration control, and product data management systems
• Experience supporting vibration, shock, and TVAC test campaigns
• Understanding of cleanroom practices and contamination control
• Preferred certifications: IPC-A-610/J-STD-001, NASA-STD-8739 or ECSS-Q-ST-70 standards, AS9100, Six Sigma

Soft Skills

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering and production teams
• Proven problem-solving mindset and ownership mentality
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy of documentation and project deliverables
• Proactive, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities simultaneously

Technology Stack

• CAD Tools: AutoDesk Inventor, SolidWorks, NX, or Creo
• Analysis Tools: FEA experience is a plus
• Data/Documentation Systems: Fusion or equivalent PDM/PLM tools
• General Tools: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project)
• Test/Data Acquisition: LabVIEW or similar systems (preferred)

Physical Requirements

• Capable of working hands-on with flight hardware, test setups, and precision instruments
• Ability to lift and move up to 25 lbs • Availability for occasional extended shifts • Night shift/weekend shift availability