Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Senior Mechanical Engineer | Job DescriptionAbout AetherfluxAetherflux is building the infrastructure to power and connect the orbital economy. Our satellites operate in Low Earth Orbit to collect sunlight and enable a new class of capabilities-from transmitting energy via infrared lasers (space-to-earth and space-to-space), to powering on-orbit compute, to delivering secure, high-bandwidth optical data. By rethinking how energy and data are generated and distributed in space, we're unlocking entirely new ways to operate both in orbit and on Earth.Founded in 2024 by Baiju Bhatt (co-founder of Robinhood), Aetherflux is backed by leading investors and built by a team from top aerospace and defense organizations. We're moving quickly to solve complex technical challenges and build a new category of space infrastructure.The RoleAs a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will play a key role in designing and building the physical systems that enable our spacecraft to operate reliably in space. You will own critical hardware from concept through flight, working across structures, mechanisms, thermal systems, and packaging to deliver high-performance, flight-ready designs.This is a hands-on role at the center of hardware development. You will work closely with propulsion, power, avionics, GNC, and software teams to design integrated systems, rapidly prototype, and validate through testing. You'll be expected to move quickly, iterate often, and take ownership of hardware that directly impacts mission success.ResponsibilitiesOwn mechanical design of spacecraft components and assemblies from concept through productionDesign and develop structures, mechanisms, and thermal solutions for space environmentsDevelop and maintain engineering documentation, drawings, and release processesPerform analysis including FEA, thermal, and tolerance stack-ups to validate designsDrive rapid prototyping, build, and test cycles to accelerate hardware developmentCollaborate cross-functionally with propulsion, power, avionics, GNC, and software engineering teamsSupport integration, environmental testing, and launch readiness activitiesTroubleshoot hardware issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement design improvementsWork with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure high-quality, scalable productionBalance performance, manufacturability, cost, and schedule in design decisionsBasic QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field5+ years of experience designing mechanical systems for aerospace or high-performance hardwareExperience taking hardware from concept through build and testStrong fundamentals in mechanics, materials, and thermal systemsProficiency with CAD (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, or similar)Experience working in fast-paced, hardware-focused development environmentsPreferred QualificationsExperience designing for space environments (thermal, vibration, vacuum)Background in spacecraft structures, mechanisms, or thermal systemsExperience with FEA and/or thermal analysis toolsHands-on experience with prototyping, machining, or test setupsExperience working at a high-growth or early-stage hardware companyFamiliarity with integration, environmental testing, or launch operationsBenefitsEquity in AetherfluxEmployees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance; long-term disability and life insurance for employees401(k) retirement savings planPaid time off10 paid holidays per calendar yearPaid leave for new parentsDaily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacksDisclaimerThis job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at Aetherflux's discretion.Export Control Requirement: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.