Sr. Mechanical Engineer (Starship Avionics)
SpaceXHawthorne, CA$130k – $180kPosted 24 April 2026
Job Description
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SR. MECHANICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIP AVIONICS)
The Starship team supports the mission to revolutionize orbital flight and space travel, opening access for humankind to establish new frontiers in space and ultimately become a multi-planetary species. Our team builds some of the most advanced electronics ever flown in space, at a cost and rate previously considered unthinkable in the space industry. Specifically, the Starship avionics team is responsible for designing a Starship avionics system that is optimized for high reliability at a low mass and cost.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Design custom instrumentation for extreme thermal, dynamic and pressure environments
Design integrated product solutions for fluid and electro-mechanical assemblies
Participate in the manufacturing line, being hands on with processes including pressure testing, thermal testing, laser welding and more
Perform thermal, structural, and tolerance analysis for mechanical assemblies using both hand calculations and finite element analysis
Participate in initial mechanical design, 3D modeling, creation of production drawings and maintenance of design data
Conduct failure analysis of components as it relates to thermal, loads, vibration and shock
Interface with machine shops and production teams to ensure final designs can be produced in accordance with overall project goals
Lead design reviews internally and participate in reviews with suppliers and partners
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, systems engineering, or electrical engineering
Experience with CAD and FEA software packages
5+ years of professional experience with mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturing
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline
3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis
2+ years of hands-on project experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a team lead
Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills
Experience with CAD and FEA software packages
Proficient and frequent use of hand calculations, finite element analyses (FEA), and computer-aided designs (CAD)
Exposure to high volume production designs with a focus on design for manufacturability
Exposure to designing for high vibration environments and high pressure environments
Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes
Working knowledge of thermal and structural FEA studies
Experience with fatigue and thermal testing of electro-mechanical assemblies
Solid understanding and application of GDT
Experience working with PCB designers and exposure to PCB layout
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Extended hours and weekend work may be required to support critical project and mission milestones
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range: Sr. Mechanical Engineer: $130,000.00 - $180,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and va ... (truncated, view full listing at source)
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