Mechanical Engineer II/III - Space Hardware Development

Job DescriptionJob Description

This position requires access to export-controlled technology. Only U.S. or are eligible. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

IRPI develops advanced space-exploration hardware for lunar, Martian, and low-Earth-orbit missions—spanning propellant management, hydroponics, life-science lab tools, heat exchangers, suit subsystems, and waste-management devices. We transform ideas into qualified flight hardware through rapid analysis, design, prototyping, and testing. If you are a mechanically minded engineer who loves turning bold concepts into real space systems, we want to meet you.

Your Mission

Work in an agile team to guide novel space hardware from whiteboard sketch through analysis, prototype, and space-qualification. You will move fluidly between conceptual design, multiphysics modeling, hands-on builds, and rigorous testing—delivering reliable hardware that performs in orbit and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Innovate & Design: Conceptualize mechanical, thermal, and fluid systems for space applications.
• Model & Document: Build SolidWorks assemblies and detailed drawings; prepare design reviews and test plans.
• Analyze & Simulate: Execute thermal, fluid, and structural analyses to validate performance.
• Prototype & Build: Fabricate rapid prototypes via additive manufacturing, CNC, and other shop tools; assemble test articles.
• Experiment & Validate: Develop test campaigns, instrument hardware, and run experiments under mission-relevant conditions.
• Interpret Data: Reduce and analyze test data; apply image-processing or scripting (MATLAB/Python) where needed.
• Collaborate: Partner with fellow engineers, NASA teams, and industry contractors to solve technical challenges.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (or related)
• 2+ years of professional engineering experience.
• Solid grasp of thermodynamics, heat-transfer, fluid mechanics, and strength of materials.
• High proficiency in SolidWorks (or similar CAD).
• Demonstrated hands-on skills: prototyping, testing, use of shop tools.
• Strong technical writing and verbal communication.

Qualifications

• M.S. with R&D focus.
• Experience with FEA, CFD, and/or data-analysis scripting (MATLAB/Python).
• Hands-on background in test instrumentation and DAQ (LabVIEW).
• Familiarity with additive manufacturing, CAM, and aerospace qualification standards.

Benefits

Compensation & Perks

• Base salary: $95,000 – $145,000 DOE
• Medical and Dental Insurance
• Retirement Plan Contributions
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and U.S. holidays
• Paid parental leave

How to Apply

If your experience covers most—but not all—of the requirements, apply to the role that best matches your background. Our hiring team reviews every application holistically and may recommend you for another current or upcoming position that aligns even better with your skills.

Equal Opportunity Employer

IRPI is committed to equal employment opportunity. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to , , , , or expression, , , , , veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status.