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Senior Mechanical Engineer (Avionics)

Impulse - Redondo Beach, CA, United States - In-office

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Impulse is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, development, and integration of avionics hardware for next-generation advanced propulsion space vehicles. You will own the full lifecycle of mechanical designs and systems—from concept through launch—working closely with cross-functional engineering teams including electrical, propulsion, guidance/navigation/control (GNC), and structural disciplines. Key responsibilities include: • Lead full-cycle development of avionics hardware from concept through launch, with cradle-to-grave ownership of mechanical designs and systems • Define system-level requirements and drive mechanical design decisions that optimize vehicle performance and reliability • Perform detailed structural, thermal, vibration, and environmental analysis using both hand calculations and finite element analysis (FEA) • Drive design-for-manufacturability (DFM) and design-for-assembly (DFA) principles; engage directly with suppliers to ensure quality and scalability • Own the mechanical interface between avionics systems and vehicle structures, ensuring alignment with system-level requirements • Define and refine build processes; author comprehensive documentation, work instructions, drawings with GD&T, and build/test plans • Support and lead structural and thermal qualification testing • Provide technical leadership in design reviews, failure investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives Required qualifications: • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or closely related discipline • 5+ years of mechanical design experience, with focus on aerospace or high-performance electronics systems • Advanced proficiency in CAD tools (NX, Creo, SolidWorks) with demonstrated ability to lead complex assemblies and mentor junior designers • Deep understanding of precision machining, sheet metal fabrication, and thermal management for avionics enclosures • Expertise in GD&T, tolerance stack-up analysis, and mechanical reliability under dynamic loads • Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts across engineering and manufacturing teams; experience presenting to leadership and external partners • Demonstrated ownership of full product lifecycle from concept through production and field support

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