Job Description
The Mechanical Engineer will lead the design, analysis, and manufacturing of spacecraft subsystems for Planet's fleet of Earth-imaging satellites, collaborating across teams to ensure successful hardware development and deployment.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop spacecraft subsystems from conceptual design through manufacturing and testing
- Drive documentation, presentation, and review of new spacecraft designs
- Collaborate with structural analysis team to ensure subsystems meet stiffness and strength requirements
- Create and release detailed drawings and tolerances for part fabrication
- Support manufacturing processes, including design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA)
- Develop and manage interface control documents and subsystem interfaces
- Assist in test planning, qualification campaigns, and hardware validation
- Troubleshoot and analyze on-orbit anomalies and production issues
- Work hands-on with flight hardware and test hardware throughout development and testing phases
Requirements
- Six (6) years of experience owning products from requirements, through conceptual design, and into test and manufacturing.
- Advanced proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software.
- Solid experience using Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD T) and ANSI Y14.5 standards to generate good quality, low-cost parts.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or other related engineering or science degree.
- Experience with design and fabrication of composites and metal components.
- Hands-on experience with dynamic hardware builds, test plan creation, and hardware validation.
- Ability to be self-motivated and responsible while working in a dynamic environment.
- Excellent verbal and visual communication skills.
- Experience designing mechanisms, electromechanical components, or solar arrays for at least 2 years.
- Experience designing products for low or mid-volume serial production and understanding of manufacturing tradeoffs.
- Ability to drive manufacturers and implement Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA).
- Experience in optics, opto-mechanical hardware, mechanisms, structures, and/or electronics RF packaging.
- Proficiency in machine shop fabrication or modification of parts using CNC Mill, Router, Lathe, Laser Cutter, or 3D printer.
- Ability to access export-controlled information without additional export licensing, as required by EAR regulations.
Benefits & Perks
Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans
Health Savings Account (HSA) with a company contribution
Generous Paid Time Off in addition to holidays and company-wide days off
16 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave
Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Home Office Reimbursement
Monthly Phone and Internet Reimbursement
Tuition Reimbursement and access to LinkedIn Learning
Equity
Commuter Benefits if local to an office
Discretionary short-term and long-term incentives bonus and equity
Salary range of 144,500 - 180,600 USD (dependent on experience, skills, and location)
Ready to Apply?
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