Mechanical Engineer (Mechanisms)

Company Overview: Starcloud is building a network of data centers in space, starting at kilowatts and scaling to gigawatt capacity. Falling launch costs allow us to take advantage of the abundant energy, radiative cooling techniques, and ability to rapidly scale in space. Join our team, push the boundaries of the space economy, and be part of this pioneering effort to redefine the future of energy. Position Overview: As a Mechanisms Engineer at Starcloud, you will play a pivotal role in designing and developing spacecraft mechanisms for our space-based data centers, in particular the deployable solar panels and deployable radiators which make our mission possible. This hands-on role demands a dynamic and innovative individual with extensive skills in mechanical analysis and design. You will be responsible for identifying requirements, conducting mechanical analysis, and building multiple design iterations to develop innovative, reliable, and cost-effective solutions. Key Responsibilities: Design and Development: Identify and analyze requirements, conduct trade studies on mechanism design options, and apply First Principles Engineering Analysis to optimize mechanisms and systems for satellites. Create and iterate detailed CAD models, including mechanism architecture, material/lubrication selections, assembly processes, and test methods. Conduct classical and FEA analysis for all load conditions (static, dynamic, thermal, fatigue) to ensure adequate margins and reliability. Testing and Validation: Develop and execute comprehensive test plans throughout development. Define qualification plans and identify acceptance testing methods. Produce complete design packages, including detailed drawings, analysis reports, BOMs, and assembly documentation. Optimization and Cost Management: Facilitate cost trades on multiple parallel configurations to balance cost, manufacturability, and design risk. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth integration with the spacecraft. Basic Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. 1+ years of experience in a hands-on engineering role working with satellite or launch vehicle mechanisms. Experience designing and qualifying mechanisms driven by stepper or BLDC motors, springs, and HDRMs. Proficient in developing design models and drawings for production and analysis using CAD software. Preferred Qualifications: Master’s or PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Project management experience for technical projects. Expertise in materials selection for space applications. Experience working with very large lightweight deployable structures Proficiency using NX and Ansys for CAD and analysis. Compensation and Benefits: Starcloud offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including: Potential for stock options, discretionary bonuses, and other long-term incentives. Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage. 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and paid parental leave. Generous paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave. Additional Requirements: Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as necessary to support critical project milestones. Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or eligible for authorization under U.S. export regulations. Equal Opportunity Employer: Starcloud is committed to fostering an inclusive and meritocratic workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should notify our Human Resources Department. Join Starcloud and shape the future! Embrace the challenge, push technologi