CareerPlanSign in

Principal Mechanical Engineer, Space Special Programs

Chantilly, VA (NOVA-11)💼 Full-time💰 $220,000–$220,000🗓 2026-08-27 → 2026-09-26

Core

Full-cycle mechanical design, fabrication supervision, and testing of small spacecraft and subsystems (deployment mechanisms, structures, pressure vessels) for space missions.

Role type

Principal Mechanical Engineer (Space Systems)

Builds

Spacecraft, space systems, and ground support equipment (MGSE) for mission-critical capabilities

Domain

Defense / Aerospace / Space Systems

Deliverable

production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work

Required skills

Space flight hardware design, 3D CAD, structural/thermal/dynamic analysis, materials selection, rapid prototyping, hands-on assembly and testing, root cause analysis, system integration, NASA-GEVS standards, spaceflight environmental testing

Preferred skills

Cubesat design (LEO through GEO), classified environment experience

Technologies

3D CAD, 3D printing, rapid prototyping tools

Responsibilities

Derive requirements and perform full-cycle design (CAD, modeling, materials selection), supervise fabrication and assembly, conduct vibration/shock/thermal vacuum testing, lead design reviews, mentor team, develop mechanical design standards, perform root cause analysis

Seniority

Principal, hands-on IC with team lead responsibilities

Sourced via greenhouse · Listed on CareerPlan, which tracks 70,000+ jobs from 20+ sources.