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Mechanical Engineer III - Tank Development Lead

Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CA

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 an experienced and highly motivated Mechanical Engineer II - Tank Development Lead to lead the design, development, integration, and testing of flight hardware for our Propulsion Tanks Team. In this role, you will take ownership of mechanical components and subsystems throughout the full hardware development lifecycle, from requirements definition and detailed design through manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing.

You will play a critical role in developing reliable, high-performance propulsion tank hardware that supports our next-generation spacecraft systems. Working closely with mechanical engineering, propulsion engineering, assembly, integration and test (AIT), manufacturing, and supplier teams, you will help ensure that hardware meets demanding technical, structural, and mission requirements. This position is ideal for an engineer with strong mechanical design expertise, hands-on aerospace hardware development experience, and the ability to independently lead technical execution in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Where You’ll Make an Impact

  • Own mechanical components/subsystems end-to-end: requirements, design, analysis coordination, release, and integration support
  • Develop CAD and drawings in Creo; apply GD&T and define inspectable requirements
  • Drive interface closure: envelope/keep-outs, fastener patterns, datums, alignment needs, harness/thermal accommodations
  • Support spacecraft build and integration: issue triage, rapid root-cause collaboration, and corrective design updates
  • Develop and execute verification plans: functional checks, fit checks, environmental test prep support, and acceptance/qualification evidence generation
  • Support design reviews (PDR/CDR), test readiness reviews, and configuration boards with clear technical content
  • Coordinate with suppliers and procurement: clarify requirements, review vendor designs, and support receiving/inspection disposition

What It Takes

  • Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • 7+ years relevant experience with aerospace/space hardware development
  • Proficiency in Creo; working knowledge of Windchill or similar PLM
  • Familiarity with propulsion system component design, fabrication, and qualification
  • Familiarity with aerospace pressure vessels and qualification
  • Strong GD&T fundamentals (ASME Y14.5) and drawing package quality discipline
  • Experience supporting hardware through build/test cycles, not just design-in-a-vacuum

Nice-to-Have Experience

  • Spacecraft and/or Launch Vehicle integration exposure: mass properties, alignment, configuration capture, as-built management
  • Knowledge of various FEA tools and structural testing methods
  • Experience with various weld types and applications (TIG, laser, friction stir welding, etc.)

What You’ll Get

  • Ownership – Lead the mechanical design and development of mission-critical propulsion tank hardware from initial requirements through integration and testing
  • Innovation – Contribute to advanced propulsion technologies and next-generation spacecraft systems enabling greater mobility, maneuverability, and mission flexibility
  • Impact – Play a direct role in developing reliable, high-performance propulsion hardware supporting national security, civil, and commercial space missions
  • Growth – Join a collaborative, fast-paced engineering team where you can expand your technical expertise, take ownership of meaningful projects, and help shape the future of space technology
  • Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, FSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing

Location: Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CA 

Base Salary: $125,000-175,000

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 the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

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