Lead mechanical design and development of electric propulsion hardware from concept through flight. Own propulsion subsystem architecture, CAD, drawings, GD&T, structural and thermal analysis, integration, testing, verification, and anomaly resolution. Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturing partners, lead design reviews, ensure performance and manufacturability, and mentor junior engineers. The role is on-site in Hawthorne, California, supporting high-performance aerospace systems.
Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer III to lead the design and development of electric propulsion hardware and associated subsystems, from concept through flight.
This role is intended for an experienced engineer who can own propulsion-related hardware, drive design decisions, and deliver flight-ready systems. You will operate at the intersection of mechanical design, thermal management, and high-performance hardware development, working closely with propulsion, systems, and test teams.
Where You’ll Make an Impact
- Own mechanical design of electric propulsion subsystems (thruster assemblies, structural interfaces, feed systems, thermal management hardware)
- Lead architecture and packaging trades for propulsion integration
- Develop and release high-quality CAD models and drawings with full GD&T
- Perform and guide structural and thermal analysis (including high-temperature and vacuum environments)
- Drive integration and testing of propulsion systems, including anomaly resolution and root cause analysis
- Define and execute verification strategies (analysis, inspection, test)
- Lead design reviews (PDR/CDR) and communicate technical decisions clearly
- Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturing partners for precision and high-performance components
- Mentor junior engineers and elevate team technical capability
- Ensure designs meet performance, manufacturability, and reliability requirements
What It Takes
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
- 5–10+ years of experience developing hardware, preferably in high-performance aerospace systems
- Strong proficiency in Creo (or similar CAD) and drawing release processes
- Deep understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5)
- Experience owning hardware through full lifecycle (design → build → test → qualification/flight)
- Strong background in structural and thermal analysis
- Proven ability to lead technical efforts and drive decisions
- Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis capability
- Ability to work on-site in the LA area
Nice-to-Have Experience
- Direct experience with electric propulsion systems
- Familiarity with plasma environments and material selection for EP systems
- Experience with thermal management in high-power-density systems
- Proficiency with FEA tools (ANSYS, Nastran, etc.)
- Experience with environmental testing (TVAC, vibration, life testing)
- Familiarity with PLM systems (Windchill or similar)
What You’ll Get
- Ownership – Lead development of critical propulsion hardware
- Innovation – Develop and advance high-performance electric propulsion hardware that pushes the boundaries of spacecraft mobility, thermal management, and in-space maneuverability
- Impact – Work on cutting-edge electric propulsion systems
- Growth– Mentor engineers and influence system architecture
- Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing
Location: Hawthorne, CA
Compensation: $125,000 to $155,000
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.
Additional Requirements
To 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 required authorizations.
Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.
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