Senior Mechanical Engineer
Location: California
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $120,000 - $180,000 per year
About the Opportunity
Alexander Associates is recruiting on behalf of a leading aerospace and space technology organization seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to join their growing engineering team in California.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the design and development of advanced spaceflight hardware, deployable structures, solar array systems, and satellite mechanisms supporting government, defense, and commercial space programs.
The successful candidate will play a key role in the design, development, testing, and deployment of innovative aerospace technologies while collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams.
Key Responsibilities
Create detailed 3D solid models and assemblies using SolidWorks CAD software for new and existing aerospace programs.
Design mechanical components and systems that meet performance, reliability, cost, and schedule requirements.
Generate and maintain engineering drawings compliant with ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards.
Manage design documentation and configuration control within PDM systems.
Lead the design and development of deployable solar array systems and related mechanisms.
Collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, testing, and program teams throughout the product lifecycle.
Support research and development activities, prototype iterations, design validation, and manufacturing process development.
Conduct engineering analyses and support system verification and qualification testing.
Prepare technical reports, design documentation, presentations, and engineering reviews.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
Strong experience in the design, manufacture, and verification of electromechanical systems, composite structures, or photovoltaic systems.
Proficiency with SolidWorks, including large assembly design.
Experience working with PDM and ERP systems.
Strong understanding of GD&T principles and tolerance analysis in accordance with ASME Y14.5.
Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
Ability to travel up to 10–15% as required.
U.S. Citizenship required with the ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense Security Clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
3+ years of experience within the aerospace or space industry.
Experience designing, building, and testing spaceflight hardware, including deployable structures, solar arrays, or boom systems.
Familiarity with aerospace design standards and guidelines such as NASA, GSFC, AIAA, and related industry specifications.
Experience with analysis tools such as Thermal Desktop, NASTRAN, or ANSYS.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365.
Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative engineering team.
What We're Looking For
Strong technical aptitude and attention to detail.
Innovative mindset with a passion for solving complex engineering challenges.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary: $120,000 – $180,000 annually (dependent on experience)
Comprehensive benefits package
Opportunities for career advancement and professional development
Work on cutting-edge aerospace and space exploration programs
Collaborative and innovative engineering environment
If you are passionate about developing next-generation aerospace technologies and want to contribute to groundbreaking space missions, we encourage you to apply