Mechanical Engineer

We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to support the development of an optical payload which will be deployed in space.  Working with the Hydrosat engineering team, this role involves design and development of the mechanical and opto-mechanical elements of the Hydrosat multispectral space payload.

This role will be responsible for developing and analyzing the mechanical designs and performing appropriate testing on prototype and other hardware in preparation for manufacturing. This role will also support the build, testing, and qualification of the space payload. The right candidate for this job will have experience with the development and test of optical systems for use in space. 

Hydrosat is a space and data analytics company building a new Earth Observation constellation and software to unlock the power of thermal infrared imagery. Our mission is to capture and deliver high spatio-temporal resolution thermal infrared data, currently not available from other sources, to provide insights that benefit the environment, enhance food and water security, and serve other critical applications.

Responsibilities:

• Support the design, analysis, and development of mechanical and opto-mechanical systems for a space based multispectral imaging payload

• Contribute to opto-mechanical designs including lens mounts, focal plane assemblies, structural interfaces, and alignment features for imaging systems

• Perform mechanical analyses (structural, thermal, vibration, and stability) to ensure optical performance is maintained across environments

• Assist in the development and execution of test plans for optical systems, including alignment verification, focus stability, and environmental performance (thermal, vibe, TVAC)

• Support optical payload integration activities including hands-on assembly, alignment, and troubleshooting of camera and sensor systems

• Work closely with other engineering disciplines to ensure mechanical designs meet imaging performance requirements (e.g. line-of-sight stability, focus stability, etc.)

• Prepare engineering documentation including drawings, test procedures, analysis, reports, and design review materials

• Assist with configuration management, drawing releases, and engineering change processes

• Coordinate with vendors and manufacturing partners on fabrication, tolerancing, and assembly of precision opto-mechanical components

• Other duties and responsibilities as required

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering.  Graduate degree preferred

• 5 or more years of experience in mechanical design and development, preferably for space optical systems

• Hands-on experience with optical systems or imaging systems such as cameras, telescopes, or sensors including integration, alignment, and testing of these systems

• Experience designing or supporting opto-mechanical assemblies (e.g. lens mounts, detector packaging, precision structures, thermal isolation)

• Familiar with optical performance sensitivities and opto-mechanical analysis using commercial solutions like Sigfit (or equivalent)

• Experience with test and evaluation of optical systems including environmental testing (thermal, vibration, thermal vacuum, etc.)

• Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g. SolidWorks or equivalent) as well as analysis tools (e.g. Nastran or equivalent)

• Experience with industry standards such as ASME Y14.5, NASA GSFC-STD-7000, among others

• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work hands-on in a lab environment

• Excellent communication skills and ability to present technical information clearly

Benefits

• Employee options

• Health insurance: Medical, Vision, Dental

• Flexible time off

• Maternity, Paternity & Parental Leave

• 401K Matching

Federal Contract Eligibility Requirement

Due to the nature of the work and applicable U.S. federal government contract requirements, this position is limited to individuals who are U.S. citizens. This requirement is mandated by the federal government and is not a discretionary employment policy. Proof of eligibility will be required as a condition of employment, consistent with applicable law.

Export Control/ITAR Compliance

This position may involve access to information or technology subject to U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). As a result, the successful candidate must be a “U.S. Person” as defined by ITAR (22 C.F.R. § 120.62). Verification of eligibility will be required as a condition of employment, in accordance with applicable law.