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Job description
Senior Mechanical Engineer (propulsion)
Location: Los Angeles
Compensation: $150,000 - 187,000 USD / year
Job Tags: Hardware
About The Role
Apex is seeking a Propulsion Mechanical Engineer to own mechanical designs for our spacecraft propulsion systems. You will drive the design, analysis, and qualification of propulsion hardware that must perform reliably through launch environments and long-duration on-orbit operations. This role spans mechanical design, fluid system development, thermal interfaces, and flight hardware qualification, with end-to-end ownership from early concept through flight readiness and operational performance. You will work closely with propulsion, thermal, avionics, and systems engineering teams to deliver robust, repeatable propulsion hardware designed for production spacecraft.
Responsibilities
Own the mechanical design of propulsion system hardware and its integration into propulsion modules, including thrusters, PPUs, manifolds, flow control hardware, high-pressure propellant lines, and tanks.
Perform analysis and testing to satisfy propulsion subsystem requirements across performance, safety, and environmental constraints.
Design propulsion module structures and housings, plasma-facing components, mounts, thermal straps, and mechanical interfaces.
Perform structural and vibration analyses to support launch loads, thermal cycling, and long-duration on-orbit operation.
Generate and maintain CAD models, drawings, and GD&T for flight hardware.
Support manufacturing, assembly, and integration of propulsion and fluid hardware.
Plan and execute propulsion hardware testing, including vacuum testing, performance testing, leak testing, proof pressure testing, vibration, and thermal vacuum qualification.
Diagnose test anomalies related to propulsion system testing and drive corrective action and design iteration.
Partner with systems engineering on requirements, margins, and subsystem interfaces.
Support launch campaigns, on-orbit performance evaluation, and anomaly resolution.
Contribute to failure analysis and continuous design improvements to support future builds and scalable production.
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
8+ years of experience delivering mechanical and/or fluid system hardware.
Strong foundation in fluid mechanics, including compressible and/or rarefied gas flow, pressure drop/flow control, and cleanliness/contamination control.
Experience designing and developing pressurized fluid systems.
Proficiency with CAD tools (NX preferred).
Comfortable owning hardware from concept through qualification and flight.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
Preferred but not required
Experience with electric propulsion systems (Hall thrusters, ion thrusters, or related EP).
Experience with spacecraft propellant feed systems and/or xenon (or alternative EP propellants).
Familiarity with propulsion testing in vacuum facilities and vacuum system gas behavior.
Prior flight hardware experience.
Benefits
Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.
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Worksite address
los angeles, CA, 90079, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.