Founding Mechanical Engineer

Company DescriptionZephyr Fusion (YC F25) is pioneering the development of compact megawatt-class fusion reactors designed specifically for space. By leveraging high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets and decreasing space launch costs, Zephyr Fusion harnesses the unique advantages of the space environment to create novel solutions for high-power applications. Zephyr Fusion aims to enable the industrialization of the space economy by building spacecraft power systems with orders of magnitude higher power densities vs. conventional satellite power systems.Role DescriptionWe are seeking a driven and innovative mechanical engineer to own the full lifecycle of high performance hardware systems, from architecture through to integration and launch. This role is a unique opportunity to lay the foundations of the mechanical engineering team here at Zephyr Fusion with a focus on designing and developing mechanical systems for advanced space applications. You will play a pivotal role in bringing Zephyr Fusion's groundbreaking space technologies to life and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to meet innovative engineering goals.This is a full-time, on-site role located in Vista, CAResponsibilities IncludeYou will own the success of the mechanical structures and mechanisms that will be key to our operations in spaceTake hardware and mechanisms from conceptual design through qualification to on-orbit operationsYou will work closely with cross-functional teams to solve hard multi-domain problems while driving designs toward real hardwareOwn CAD models, drawings, release packages, and bill of materials for prototype and flight hardwareDrive design trades across performance, manufacturability, schedule, and costEstablish effective processes and standards for mechanical engineering at Zephyr FusionQualificationsExpertise in Mechanical Design and Mechanical Engineering8 or more years of relevant experience. We highly value time spent in fast-moving, execution-focused teams and product-driven culturesExperience with CAD or FEA software packagesExperience with the practical application of GD&TDemonstrated proficiency in the principles of mechanical design, materials, and thermodynamicsDemonstrated ability to personally design, build, and test hardware from a blank canvas, including troubleshooting and iterating designsAbility to collaborate across teams in fast-paced, hands-on engineering projectsPreferred Experience in aerospace, fusion, or advanced energy technologyDesign of magnetic systems and/or High Temperature SuperconductorsExperience working on projects with extreme thermal challenges Familiarity with space screening and qualification processes