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Apex manufactures satellite buses (commercial spacecraft platforms) at scale, combining software, vertical integration, and hardware designed for manufacturing. These platforms enable earth observation, communications, and other critical space applications.
As a Mechanisms Engineer, Payloads, you will design, develop, and test payload deployment and articulation mechanisms for satellite systems. You will own mechanism hardware end-to-end—from concept through design, manufacturing, integration, and flight testing—with a focus on reliable operation in the space environment.
Key responsibilities include:
- Design and develop payload deployment, articulation, hinges, latches, actuators, release mechanisms, and other moving assemblies
- Create 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, tolerance analyses, and GD&T documentation
- Perform hand calculations and analysis to evaluate loads, kinematics, stiffness, life, and mechanism performance
- Select and integrate components such as motors, bearings, springs, fasteners, and actuators
- Collaborate cross-functionally to integrate mechanisms with spacecraft and payload systems
- Support hands-on assembly, integration, troubleshooting, and testing of hardware
- Develop and execute functional, life-cycle, and environmental testing protocols
- Work with manufacturing and suppliers to resolve hardware and production issues
Required qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field; 3+ years designing and developing mechanical hardware; proficiency in CAD (NX, SolidWorks); strong understanding of mechanical design fundamentals, GD&T, and tolerance analysis; hands-on problem-solving skills; U.S. Person status (export control requirement).
Preferred: experience with spacecraft/aerospace mechanisms, actuators, hinges, latches, deployment systems, kinematic/structural analysis, environmental testing, and NX/Teamcenter.
Apex is a fast-growing, well-funded startup ($500M+) offering equity, comprehensive healthcare, 15-20+ days PTO, 401(k) matching, parental leave, catered lunch, and a collaborative Playa Vista office environment.
