Senior Mechanical Engineer (Avionics)

As a Senior Mechanical Engineer at Impulse for our Avionics Team, you are responsible for the design, build, test/analysis & integration of your hardware - working with cross-functional engineering teams to accomplish this. This means cradle-to-grave ownership of mechanical designs and systems in support of Impulse’s collection of next generation advanced propulsion space vehicles. 

Responsibilities

• Lead full-cycle development of avionics hardware from concept through launch
• Define system-level requirements and drive mechanical design decisions
• Perform detailed analysis of structural dynamics, thermal behavior, vibration, and environmental resilience for avionics components (hand calculations and FEA)
• Drive design-for-manufacturability (DFM) and design-for-assembly (DFA) principles across the product lifecycle; engage directly with suppliers to ensure quality and scalability
• Collaborate cross-functionally with electrical, propulsion, GNC, and structural engineering teams to architect integrated solutions that optimize vehicle performance and reliability
• Define and refine build processes; author comprehensive documentation and work instructions, drawings (with GD&T), and build/test plans
• Own and manage the mechanical interface between avionics systems and vehicle structures, ensuring alignment with system-level requirements and constraints
• Support and lead structural and thermal qualification testing
• Provide technical leadership in design reviews, failure investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related discipline
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical design, with a focus on aerospace or high-performance electronics systems
• Advanced proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., NX, Creo, SolidWorks), with demonstrated ability to lead complex assemblies and mentor junior designers
• Deep understanding of precision machining, sheet metal fabrication, and thermal management strategies for avionics enclosures
• Expertise in GD&T, tolerance stack-up analysis, and mechanical reliability under dynamic loads
• Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly across engineering and manufacturing teams; experience presenting to leadership and external partners
• Demonstrated ownership of full product lifecycle - from concept through production and field support