Mechanical Engineer III
Quantum Space · Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CA
Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Mechanical Engineer III to lead the design, development, integration, and testing of flight hardware for our next-generation spacecraft programs. In this role, you will take ownership of mechanical components and subsystems throughout the full hardware development lifecycle, from requirements definition and detailed design through manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing.
You will play a critical role in ensuring the performance, reliability, and manufacturability of mission-critical spacecraft hardware while collaborating closely with mechanical engineering, systems engineering, assembly, integration and test (AIT), and manufacturing teams. This position is ideal for an engineer with strong mechanical design expertise, hands-on flight hardware development experience, and the ability to independently lead technical execution in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Where You’ll Make an Impact
- Own mechanical components/subsystems end-to-end: requirements, design, analysis coordination, release, and integration support
- Develop CAD and drawings in Creo; apply GD&T and define inspectable requirements
- Drive interface closure: envelope/keep-outs, fastener patterns, datums, alignment needs, harness/thermal accommodations
- Support spacecraft build and integration: issue triage, rapid root-cause collaboration, and corrective design updates
- Develop and execute verification plans: functional checks, fit checks, environmental test prep support, and acceptance/qualification evidence generation
- Support design reviews (PDR/CDR), test readiness reviews, and configuration boards with clear technical content
- Coordinate with suppliers and procurement: clarify requirements, review vendor designs, and support receiving/inspection disposition
What It Takes
- Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
- 7+ years relevant experience with aerospace/space hardware development
- Proficiency in Creo; working knowledge of Windchill or similar PLM
- Strong GD&T fundamentals (ASME Y14.5) and drawing package quality discipline
- Experience supporting hardware through build/test cycles, not just design-in-a-vacuum
Nice-to-Have Experience
- Spacecraft integration exposure: mass properties, alignment, configuration capture, as-built management
- Experience writing or reviewing work instructions / build travelers
- Familiarity with environmental testing and test readiness processes
What You’ll Get
- Ownership – Lead mechanical design and development of mission-critical spacecraft hardware from requirements through integration and testing
- Innovation – Contribute to next-generation spacecraft technologies enabling advanced space mobility, maneuverability, and mission capabilities
- Impact – Play a direct role in delivering reliable, high-performance spacecraft hardware supporting national security, civil, and commercial missions
- Growth – Join a collaborative, fast-paced engineering team where you can expand your technical expertise, take ownership of meaningful projects, and help shape the future of space technology
- Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, FSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing
Location: Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CA
Base Salary: $125,000-175,000
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.
Additional Requirements
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.