{"schemaVersion":"jobsearcher.job.v1","id":"e8a2804c05f12aefef88a4fc","url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/e8a2804c05f12aefef88a4fc","canonicalUrl":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/e8a2804c05f12aefef88a4fc","title":"Principal Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Programs","description":"Who We’re Looking For\nQuantum Space is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer for Advanced Programs to drive mechanical architectures for next-generation spacecraft concepts—where requirements are evolving, the trade space is wide, and rigorous engineering judgment matters.\n\nThis is a principal-level role: you will own ambiguous problems, set technical direction, and lead cross-functional execution toward buildable designs.\n\nWhere You’ll Make an Impact\nLead mechanical architecture and trade studies: packaging, mechanism concepts, structural layout, thermal hardware accommodation, serviceability, and integration strategy\nOwn subsystem/interface definitions and drive closure with systems engineering: ICD inputs, keep-outs, access constraints, mass properties, alignment and stability needs\nDrive mechanical design maturation from concept to preliminary/detailed design: requirements, sizing logic, margins and assumptions, verification strategy\nLead risk identification and mitigation planning (materials, joints, mechanisms, contamination, alignment, thermal distortion, integration sequence)\nSupport prototype builds and rapid iteration: design-to-test loops, test learning incorporation, design updates\nPartner with procurement and suppliers: SOW technical inputs, technical evaluation, vendor coordination, design for manufacturability feedback loops\nDeliver review-quality content: architecture rationale, risk posture, verification approach, and build/test readiness\n\nWhat It Takes\nBS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field\n10+ years mechanical engineering experience, with sustained ownership of complex hardware development\nBroad mechanical systems knowledge (structures, mechanisms, packaging, integration realities)\nStrong communication and leadership without relying on org-chart authority\nComfort operating in ambiguity and driving crisp decisions with incomplete data\nWork location within the LA area\n\nNice-to-Have Experience\nSpacecraft mechanism design (release devices, deployment, latching, pointing structures)\nExperience supporting environmental testing and verification closure\nCreo/Windchill experience and ability to guide design quality standards\n\nWhat You’ll Get\nOwnership – Be a technical anchor in Advanced Programs\nInnovation – Turn early concepts into executable hardware roadmaps\nImpact – Shape the next spacecraft generation\nCompensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation.\n\nAdditional Requirements\nTo comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.\n\nApply now. Help define the mechanical future of Quantum Space.","company":"Quantum Space","rawCompany":"quantum space","city":"Derwood","state":"MD","isRemote":false,"isActive":false,"createdAt":"2026-04-14T11:06:29.246Z","occupations":[{"code":"17-2141.00","title":"Mechanical Engineers","slug":"mechanical-engineers"},{"code":"17-2011.00","title":"Aerospace Engineers","slug":"aerospace-engineers"},{"code":"17-2199.00","title":"Engineers, All Other","slug":"engineers-all-other"}],"industries":[{"code":"927110","title":"Space Research and Technology","slug":"space-research-and-technology"},{"code":"336414","title":"Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing","slug":"guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-manufacturing"},{"code":"336419","title":"Other Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing","slug":"other-guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-parts-and-auxiliary-equipment-manufacturing"}],"jobPosting":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"JobPosting","title":"Principal Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Programs","description":"Who We’re Looking For\nQuantum Space is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer for Advanced Programs to drive mechanical architectures for next-generation spacecraft concepts—where requirements are evolving, the trade space is wide, and rigorous engineering judgment matters.\n\nThis is a principal-level role: you will own ambiguous problems, set technical direction, and lead cross-functional execution toward buildable designs.\n\nWhere You’ll Make an Impact\nLead mechanical architecture and trade studies: packaging, mechanism concepts, structural layout, thermal hardware accommodation, serviceability, and integration strategy\nOwn subsystem/interface definitions and drive closure with systems engineering: ICD inputs, keep-outs, access constraints, mass properties, alignment and stability needs\nDrive mechanical design maturation from concept to preliminary/detailed design: requirements, sizing logic, margins and assumptions, verification strategy\nLead risk identification and mitigation planning (materials, joints, mechanisms, contamination, alignment, thermal distortion, integration sequence)\nSupport prototype builds and rapid iteration: design-to-test loops, test learning incorporation, design updates\nPartner with procurement and suppliers: SOW technical inputs, technical evaluation, vendor coordination, design for manufacturability feedback loops\nDeliver review-quality content: architecture rationale, risk posture, verification approach, and build/test readiness\n\nWhat It Takes\nBS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field\n10+ years mechanical engineering experience, with sustained ownership of complex hardware development\nBroad mechanical systems knowledge (structures, mechanisms, packaging, integration realities)\nStrong communication and leadership without relying on org-chart authority\nComfort operating in ambiguity and driving crisp decisions with incomplete data\nWork location within the LA area\n\nNice-to-Have Experience\nSpacecraft mechanism design (release devices, deployment, latching, pointing structures)\nExperience supporting environmental testing and verification closure\nCreo/Windchill experience and ability to guide design quality standards\n\nWhat You’ll Get\nOwnership – Be a technical anchor in Advanced Programs\nInnovation – Turn early concepts into executable hardware roadmaps\nImpact – Shape the next spacecraft generation\nCompensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation.\n\nAdditional Requirements\nTo comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.\n\nApply now. Help define the mechanical future of Quantum Space.","datePosted":"2026-04-14T11:06:29.246Z","dateModified":"2026-04-14T11:06:29.246Z","hiringOrganization":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Quantum Space","sameAs":"https://jobsearcher.com"},"jobLocation":{"@type":"Place","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressLocality":"Derwood","addressRegion":"MD","addressCountry":"US"}},"identifier":{"@type":"PropertyValue","name":"JobSearcher","value":"e8a2804c05f12aefef88a4fc"},"url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/e8a2804c05f12aefef88a4fc"}}