About the role
Job ID: 9912 Date Posted: October 26, 2026
The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer to perform detailed design and analysis of space hardware and subsystems. The successful candidate will be able to immediately begin work on new projects, establish and document requirements, and work closely with small and large engineering teams to turn ideas into working hardware. The nature of the work is rewarding, and employees feel a sense of accomplishment from working on projects from concept through design, implementation, test, and delivery.
The Civil & Commercial Space Division is at the forefront of scientific research and space exploration. We equip major Government and commercial missions with calibrated state-of-the-art sensors and satellites. We also provide world-class AI&T technologies and mission management. Our projects include challenges across planetary science, Earth observation, heliophysics, and astrophysics. Be part of a team that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in space and contributes to monumental scientific discoveries.
Key Responsibilities:
* Creates mechanical designs for spacecraft hardware and other complex engineering systems * Performs mechanical analyses, including stress, fatigue, and tolerance analysis * Supports development and qualification of additively manufactured metallic spacecraft hardware * Creates engineering drawings and applies GD&T * Supports hardware fabrication, assembly, testing, and troubleshooting * Communicates technical work through documentation, design reviews, and presentations
Required Qualifications: * Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or closely related field * 5 years professional engineering experience * Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals and demonstrated problem-solving ability * Proficiency with computer-aided design tools (NX preferred) * Familiarity with GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and mechanical tolerance analysis * Hands-on aptitude and ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary engineering teams * Ability to communicate technical information clearly in writing and presentations * Must have or be able to obtain a DoW security clearance * Must be a US citizen
Preferred Qualifications: * Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or closely related field * Experience engineering metal additive manufactured (AM) components * Experience with structural or fatigue analysis and finite element analysis (FEA) * Experience with metallic additive manufacturing * Experience with pressure vessels, propulsion systems, or space hardware * Experience with mechanical testing or experimental data analysis
Salary Range * $90,000 - $135,000 * Salary commensurate on education and relevant experience
This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate’s preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.
Why Join SDL? SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.
The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly