Sr. Mechanical Engineer
- Salary
- $130K - $180K
- Level
- Senior
- Work type
- Hybrid · Los Angeles
Not stated in the posting: visa.
Open. First seen 2 October 2026.
About the role
Observable Space's standard text
About Observable Space
At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.
We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.
Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, visit observable.space.
About the Role
We are seeking a highly-motivated and experienced Mechanical Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you’ll design precision mechanical and optomechanical systems for telescopes and related equipment. You’ll work with a multidisciplinary team of optical, electrical, and software engineers to deliver observatory-grade systems for ground-based and potential future space-based deployment.
What You'll Bring
- Design and optimize mechanical and optomechanical components (e.g., telescope tubes, mounts, enclosures, optical supports).
- Create detailed 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs).
- Conduct FEA simulations for stress, thermal, and vibrational environments.
- Collaborate with optics and software teams to ensure mechanical compatibility with imaging, tracking, and sensing subsystems.
- Support the full product lifecycle, from concept design and prototyping to testing and production.
- Participate in and contribute to design reviews (PDR, CDR, etc.) and internal documentation.
- Provide engineering support during fabrication, QC, assembly, and system validation.
What You'll Do
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent.
- 5+ years in a Mechanical Engineering role in Aerospace, Automotive, or a related industry.
- Strong proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX, or similar).
- Understanding of FEA (ANSYS, Nastran, etc.), tolerance analysis, and DFM principles.
- Hands-on experience with fabrication, machining, welding, drilling, and/or mechanical assembly.
- Effective communicator and collaborator.
- Demonstrated passion for aerospace or observational technologies.
Preferred Qualifications
- Grasp of materials, fasteners, coatings, and alignment techniques.
- Understanding of system engineering workflows, interface control documents, and verification processes.
- Basic scripting or automation (Python, MATLAB) for design or test workflows.
What We Offer
Competitive Compensation – A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.
Observable Space's standard text
Equity Opportunities – Take part in our success with stock options.
Flexible Work Environment – Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)
Observable Space's standard text
Unlimited PTO (exempt only) – Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.
Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.
Cutting-Edge Tools – Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.
Mission-Driven Culture – Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.
Inclusive Team – We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.
Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
What this role asks for
Standard for software engineering roles
Python
Common in software engineering postings at any company.
50% of this description is written for the role. The rest is Observable Space's standard text, folded away below.
Read against Observable Space's other open postings on this site.
The team: Mechanical HIRES STEADILY
This role is one of 5 open in Mechanical. 1 was posted in the last 30 days and the oldest in April: a team that hires all year rather than one being built.
WHAT THE TEAM WORKS WITH, ACROSS ITS POSTINGS
ANSYS (5 of 5), FEA (5 of 5), MATLAB (5 of 5), Python (5 of 5), SolidWorks (4 of 5), Creo (2 of 5)
OTHER ROLES ON THIS TEAM
- Mechanical Engineer - Structural Analyst posted Sep 17
- Mechanical Engineer posted Sep 16
- Sr. Spacecraft Thermal Engineer posted Sep 10
- Sr. Opto-Mechanical Engineer, Photonics posted Apr 3
From the team and dates on Observable Space's own job board.
Salary context
15 other open postings titled Sr. Mechanical Engineer state a salary: median USD 130,000 to USD 180,000 a year.
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