Lead Spacecraft Engineer (Mechanisms and Actuators)

Lead Spacecraft Engineer (Mechanisms and Actuators) Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. ABOUT THE ROLE Apex is looking for a Lead Mechanisms and Actuators Engineer to support our current and next generation satellites. This person will own the design, development, and delivery of flight-critical spacecraft mechanisms from concept through on orbit operation. This role will drive architecture, analysis, hardware execution, and cross functional integration for mechanisms including deployables, actuators, and precision moving assemblies. You will operate with high ownership, leading complex hardware programs while partnering closely with electrical, avionics, structures, and manufacturing teams to deliver reliable, production-ready systems at scale. Responsibilities: - Own end-to-end design of spacecraft mechanisms (actuators, deployables, moving assemblies) from concept through flight, including architecture, requirements, CAD, drawings, and specifications - Drive trade studies (mass, performance, reliability, manufacturability), make vs. buy decisions, and supplier execution while partnering cross-functionally (avionics, power, GNC, structures, manufacturing) to deliver fully integrated systems - Perform first-principles analysis and FEA (structural, kinematic, dynamic) to size and validate components such as gears, bearings, screws, and load-bearing structures - Develop and execute test plans (development, qualification, acceptance), analyze results, and iterate designs based on data and flight feedback - Own hardware through build, integration, and test, diagnosing issues quickly and driving solutions in fast-paced, hands-on environments - Lead a small team through design reviews, set technical direction, and mentor engineers while driving decisions that balance performance, risk, and schedule Requirements: - Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or related field) - 4+ years of experience designing and delivering mechanical systems or mechanisms - 1+ years of professional experience leading technical teams and/or projects - Experience owning hardware from concept through test or production - Strong fundamentals in mechanical design, structures, and system integration - Experience designing mechanisms such as actuators, deployables, geartrains, bearings, or precision assemblies - Proficiency with CAD (NX, CATIA, SolidWorks) and FEA tools (ANSYS, Nastran, etc.) - Experience developing and executing hardware test campaigns - Demonstrated ability to move quickly, take ownership, and solve complex problems in fast-paced environments - Experience working with suppliers and managing external partners - Exposure to spacecraft, launch vehicles, or other high-performance hardware systems Nice to Have: - Experience with spacecraft or aerospace mechanisms - Familiarity with environmental testing (vibe, thermal, vacuum) - Hands-on experience with machining, assembly, or hardware bring-up - Scripting or analysis tools (Python, MATLAB, etc.) WHY JOIN APEX? Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working ... (truncated, view full listing at source)