Mechanical Engineer

From telescopes to software architecture, Observable Space provides the foundational elements every organization needs to operate in space. Observable Space is unlocking continuous, real-time observations of space with the industry’s first line of vertically integrated hardware and software products. The company is the result of a merger between PlaneWave Instruments, the leader in advanced telescope design and manufacturing in the US, and OurSky, a company founded by SpaceX’s former VP of software engineering to create a developer platform for space data applications. Observable Space’s full line of products serves all sectors of the space industry including commercial, science, education, and government customers, as well as astronomy enthusiasts discovering the cosmos.

Observable Space is backed by top institutional investors–Upfront Ventures, Oceans Ventures, Venrex, Marlinspike Partners, and Embedded Ventures.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Mechanical Engineer to join our hardware engineering team. In this role, you’ll design precision mechanical and optomechanical systems for telescopes and related equipment, with a focus on performance, manufacturability, and environmental resilience. You’ll work with a multidisciplinary team of optical, electrical, and software engineers to deliver observatory-grade systems for ground-based and potential future space-based deployment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and optimize mechanical and optomechanical components (e.g., telescope tubes, mounts, enclosures, optical supports).

• Create detailed 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs).

• Perform STOP analysis (Structural, Thermal, Optical Performance) to verify system-level integrity and alignment through operating conditions.

• Conduct FEA simulations for stress, thermal, and vibrational environments.

• Collaborate with optics and software teams to ensure mechanical compatibility with imaging, tracking, and sensing subsystems.

• Support the full product lifecycle—from concept design and prototyping to testing and production.

• Participate in and contribute to design reviews (PDR, CDR, etc.) and internal documentation.

• Provide engineering support during fabrication, QC, assembly, and system validation.

• Mentor junior engineers or lead subsystem efforts (senior level).

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Optical Engineering (or equivalent).

• 5+ years of relevant experience in aerospace, optics, or mechanical systems.

• Experience with CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX, or similar).

• Strong understanding of mechanical design fundamentals.

• Effective communicator and collaborator.

• Demonstrated passion for aerospace or observational technologies.

• Proven record of delivering engineered components or systems from concept to production.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency with FEA (ANSYS, Nastran, etc.), tolerance analysis, and DFM principles.

• Strong grasp of materials, fasteners, coatings, and alignment techniques.

• Ability to lead designs and present technical rationale at design reviews.

• Familiarity with STOP analysis or similar cross-domain system verification approaches.

• Experience in telescope systems, astronomical instrumentation, or optomechanics.

• Background in thermal design for outdoor or space environments.

• Familiarity with optical mounts, flexures, and athermal design principles.

• Understanding of system engineering workflows, interface control documents, and verification processes.

• Basic scripting or automation (Python, MATLAB) for design or test workflows.

• Experience working in ISO or AS9100 quality environments.

What We Offer

• Competitive Compensation – A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.

• Equity Opportunities – Take part in our success with stock options.

• Flexible Work Environment – Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)

• Unlimited PTO – Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.

• Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.

• Cutting-Edge Tools – Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.

• Mission-Driven Culture – Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.

• Inclusive Team – We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.

Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.