Mechanical Engineer III - Advanced Programs

Job Description

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and autonomy beyond Earth orbit. Our Ranger spacecraft deliver high delta-V and sustained on-orbit maneuverability, enabling missions across cislunar and geostationary space that were previously out of reach. We are building the vehicles, infrastructure, and operational expertise that connect and protect assets across the Earth–Moon system.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer III to lead the design and development of electric propulsion hardware and associated subsystems, from concept through flight.

This role is intended for an experienced engineer who can own propulsion-related hardware, drive design decisions, and deliver flight-ready systems. You will operate at the intersection of mechanical design, thermal management, and high-performance hardware development, working closely with propulsion, systems, and test teams.

Where You’ll Make an Impact

Own mechanical design of electric propulsion subsystems (thruster assemblies, structural interfaces, feed systems, thermal management hardware)

Lead architecture and packaging trades for propulsion integration

Develop and release high-quality CAD models and drawings with full GD&T

Perform and guide structural and thermal analysis (including high-temperature and vacuum environments)

Drive integration and testing of propulsion systems, including anomaly resolution and root cause analysis

Define and execute verification strategies (analysis, inspection, test)

Lead design reviews (PDR/CDR) and communicate technical decisions clearly

Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturing partners for precision and high-performance components

Mentor junior engineers and elevate team technical capability

Ensure designs meet performance, manufacturability, and reliability requirements

What It Takes

BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field

5–10+ years of experience developing hardware, preferably in high-performance aerospace systems

Strong proficiency in Creo (or similar CAD) and drawing release processes

Deep understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5)

Experience owning hardware through full lifecycle (design → build → test → qualification/flight)

Strong background in structural and thermal analysis

Proven ability to lead technical efforts and drive decisions

Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis capability

Ability to work on-site in the LA area

Nice-to-Have Experience

Direct experience with electric propulsion systems

Familiarity with plasma environments and material selection for EP systems

Experience with thermal management in high-power-density systems

Proficiency with FEA tools (ANSYS, Nastran, etc.)

Experience with environmental testing (TVAC, vibration, life testing)

Familiarity with PLM systems (Windchill or similar)

What You’ll Get

Ownership – Lead development of critical propulsion hardware

Technical Depth – Work on cutting-edge electric propulsion systems

Leadership – Mentor engineers and influence system architecture

Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits

Additional Requirements

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required authorizations.