SlipstreamJobs tracks this role from the company's public career site. Apply directly on the employer's site.
Xona Space Systems is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join the propulsion team as the primary mechanical architect and design owner for advanced satellite propulsion hardware. This is a high-ownership, hands-on role focused on designing next-generation propulsion systems for Xona's Pulsar satellite constellation in Low Earth Orbit.
You will drive full-system CAD development, detailed finite element analysis (FEA), thermal-structural joint optimization, and rapid laboratory test execution. Key responsibilities include serving as the lead designer for the propulsion system and supporting hardware; driving Design for Manufacturability (DFM) across high-precision mechanical components and assemblies in direct collaboration with machine shops and specialty vendors; selecting materials for high-temperature, high-vacuum, and other demanding environments; performing structural and thermal analysis to evaluate margins under launch and operational conditions; building, assembling, and iterating on prototype hardware; developing and executing comprehensive test plans for prototypes, engineering models, and flight hardware; defining inspection, acceptance, and assembly procedures for production transition; and supporting supplier evaluation and selection.
Required qualifications include a Bachelor's or Master's degree in mechanical engineering or related field; demonstrated experience leading mechanical hardware design from concept through prototype into production; strong Design for Manufacturability expertise and direct vendor/machinist collaboration; expert-level GD&T and tolerance analysis per ASME Y14.5; deep materials knowledge including refractory metals and ceramics with processing/heat treatment specification; proficiency with mechanical CAD (SolidWorks) and FEA tools for structural and thermal analysis; a prototyping-first mindset; strong problem-solving and attention to detail; and ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
Desired qualifications include spaceflight or aerospace hardware experience with qualification workflows, background in aerospace/plasma devices/vacuum systems, and experience with hardware integration, assembly, or environmental testing. U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency is required to comply with space technology export regulations.
