SlipstreamJobsFresh Startup & VC-Backed Jobs

Senior Mechanical Engineer (Mechanisms)

Orbit Fab - Lafayette, CO, United States - In-office - posted 2026-08-12

Apply on the company site

SlipstreamJobs tracks this role from the company's public career site. Apply directly on the employer's site.

Orbit Fab is building the foundational infrastructure for an in-space economy through Gas Stations in Space™ and RAFTI™ refueling technology. The company enables satellite refueling, extending spacecraft lifespans and enabling new operational strategies. Founded in 2018, Orbit Fab has successfully launched three tankers to space and operates offices in the US and UK. You will own the design, analysis, and optimization of complex spaceflight mechanisms from conceptual design through production and operation. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys prototyping, building, and solving open-ended design problems. Key responsibilities: • Mechanical Design & Analysis: Lead the design and analysis of space mechanisms, including ideation and prototyping of solutions to design challenges. Develop and maintain detailed CAD models, design documentation, and manufacturing drawings. Perform analysis verification and evaluate compliance to expected space environments. • System Coordination: Collaborate across teams to integrate mechanisms with broader spacecraft systems, manage interfaces, and ensure alignment with mission requirements. • Hardware Development: Participate in hands-on hardware development, testing, and troubleshooting. Support manufacturing and assembly processes, and contribute to operational support of deployed systems. • Technical Leadership: Guide junior engineers and contribute to team technical discussions. Document design rationale and maintain institutional knowledge. You should have strong experience in mechanical design for aerospace or similar high-reliability environments, proficiency in CAD and analysis tools (FEA, thermal, structural), and a track record of taking designs from concept to flight. A portfolio demonstrating your work is strongly encouraged. The ideal candidate is a builder and maker who thrives in collaborative, fast-paced environments and is excited about enabling the space economy.

Similar roles