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LEAD ENGINEER - PRINCIPAL ENGINEER - Instrument Mechanical Engineer - Boulder, CO

Southwest Research Institute
Boulder, CO Full Time
POSTED ON 9/3/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 10/3/2026
Who We Are:

As a recognized leader in space science research and spacecraft instrumentation, avionics, and electronics, we work to reveal the secrets of our solar system and the universe. The Solar System Science & Exploration Division of Southwest Research Institute pushes the boundaries of space exploration, solar physics, and mission operations. Our experts lead groundbreaking research, develop cutting-edge instruments, and operate space missions that expand our understanding of the universe.

Objectives of this Role:

  • Produce complex Mechanical Engineering designs and analysis in support of space instrument development, prototype development and proposal efforts.
  • Experience in space instrument structures, optics, thermal, and or mechanism design.
  • Produce mechanical designs using CAD software including layouts, drawings, bill of material development, mass properties management, integration and test plans, procedure development, verification and test plans.
  • Perform mechanical analysis including structural analysis, mechanism analysis, and/or orbital thermal analysis.
  • Lead and support Assembly Integration and Test activities including production paperwork, non-conformance management and disposition.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

  • Develop complex mechanical designs for instruments, prototype development, and proposals including production of CAD models, drawings, and test procedures.
  • Develop integration and test plans, analyze test data to verify instrument performance.
  • Lead and advise on direct hands-on work with spaceflight optical instrument build, integration and testing.
  • Provide mentoring, training and leadership to early career engineers.

Requirements:

  • Requires a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineer, Aerospace Engineering, or related Engineering field degree field with directly related experience.
  • 10 - 15 years: Spaceflight instrument design and analysis. Proficient in one or more of the following: CREO, Solid Works, ANSYS, NASTRAN, and Thermal Desktop.
  • 10 - 15 years: Spaceflight component testing and verification.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements:

Work assignment is in Boulder, Colorado.
Job Locations: Boulder, Colorado

Salary Range: $117,894.00 - $220,126.00

For more information about this division, visit the Solar System Science & Exploration home page.

For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here .
For benefits information at all other locations, click here .

An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.

Salary : $117,894 - $220,126

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