Director, Mechanical Engineering

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.

We are seeking an experienced Director of Mechanical Engineering to lead and scale our Mechanical Engineering team while remaining involved in the design and development of our products. This is a player-coach leadership role for an experienced engineering leader who enjoys solving complex technical problems as much as building high-performing teams.

As Director of Mechanical Engineering, you will provide technical direction across our mechanical systems while leading a team of engineers responsible for developing precision optomechanical hardware for advanced sensing platforms. You will help establish engineering processes, mentor and grow the team, and remain actively involved in architecture, design reviews, prototyping, and solving the most challenging engineering problems.

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical and optomechanical systems, including telescope structures, optical support assemblies, mechanisms, and precision instrumentation.

• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team of mechanical engineers across varying levels of experience.

• Own mechanical engineering execution across multiple development programs, balancing technical quality, schedule, and business priorities.

• Lead design reviews, perform engineering trade studies, and provide technical direction throughout the product lifecycle.

• Partner closely with Engineering leadership to define technical roadmaps, organizational growth plans, and engineering priorities.

• Guide structural, thermal, vibration, and tolerance analyses to ensure designs meet performance requirements.

• Support prototyping, integration, testing, manufacturing, and production by helping solve challenging technical issues.

• Support supplier selection, fabrication partners, and manufacturing readiness activities.

• Establish engineering processes, design standards, documentation practices, and quality expectations that enable the team to scale.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.

• 10+ years designing complex mechanical systems for aerospace, automotive, robotics, or other high-performance hardware industries.

• Experience leading mechanical engineering teams while remaining an active technical contributor.

• Experience leading and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

• Demonstrated success developing products from concept through prototype, validation, manufacturing, and production.

• Expert-level proficiency with CAD platforms such as SolidWorks, Siemens NX, or equivalent.

• Strong understanding of FEA, GD&T, tolerance analysis, DFM/DFA, precision machining, fabrication, and assembly.

• Experience leading technical design reviews and mentoring engineers through complex design challenges.

• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence technical direction across multidisciplinary teams.

• Passion for building products, solving difficult engineering problems, and developing exceptional engineering teams.

Competitive Compensation – A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.

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)

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.