Mechanism Engineer- Assembly, Integration & Test- Midland, TX

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Mechanisms Engineer (AIT) to join a high-impact team supporting the design, assembly, integration, and testing of spacecraft mechanisms for a next-generation satellite constellation. This role is hands-on and mission-critical, focused on deployment systems and precision mechanisms rather than static structures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assemble, integrate, and test spacecraft mechanisms including hinges, yokes, actuators, HDRMs, and deployable booms/arms with thousands of moving parts per satellite.
• Develop and operate ground support equipment for vibration, shock, and thermal vacuum testing of deployment hardware.
• Perform tolerance stack-up analysis and ensure alignment in moving assemblies for reliable deployment.
• Analyze test data and determine pass/fail criteria, supporting spacecraft integration and launch operations.
• Troubleshoot anomalies and perform root-cause analysis on deployment systems; contribute to design improvements for mechanisms that fail to deploy cleanly.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineers and technicians to ensure mechanism performance from design through mission deployment.
• Calculate torque margins and hinge preload requirements for deployment actuators and separation systems.
  
  

Qualifications:

• 0-4 years of hands-on experience in aerospace mechanisms, deployment systems, or precision mechanical assemblies (structures-only experience will not suffice).
• Proficiency in mechanical assembly, testing, and integration of space hardware, including deployable systems.
• Experience with CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo) and test equipment (oscilloscopes, thermal chambers).
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• Strong understanding of beam loading, bending moments, torque margins, and tolerance stack-ups in moving assemblies.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills; ability to lead failure investigations.
• Flexibility for occasional weekend and early morning work (e.g., 4 AM deployments).
  
  

Compensation:

• Salary Range: $85,000 – $100,000 depending on experience
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, PTO, Sick Leave as required by law, and Holidays
• Additional Benefits: Relocation assistance, RSUs, Meal Stipend, and Unlimited PTO (after 90 days)
• Must be eligible to work in the United States and pass a background check
• Location: 100% onsite in Midland, TX
  
  

Keywords:

Mechanisms Engineer, AIT, Aerospace, Satellite Integration, CAD, Creo, SolidWorks, Thermal Vacuum Testing, Vibration Testing, Ground Support Equipment, Test Engineering, Spacecraft, CubeSat, Launch Operations, Agile, Manufacturing, SpaceTech