Orbit Fab's mission is to create the foundational infrastructure that will fuel a bustling in-space economy, capable of sustaining permanent jobs in space. Today, satellites cannot be refueled, which severely constrains their mobility and inhibits the development of economic activities in space.
Orbit Fab breaks the single-use paradigm, pioneering our Gas Stations in Space™ refueling infrastructure and RAFTI™ technology to deliver propellant in space, enabling lower-cost satellite construction, increased maneuverability, precise control, and extended lifespans. The possibilities are unprecedented, opening the doors to unimagined operational strategies and business models.
Since our establishment in 2018, we have already achieved the successful launch of three tankers to space. With offices in both the US and UK, we are working in close collaboration with partners and customers across the space industry. Orbit Fab is rapidly ramping up capabilities and requires exceptional talent to tackle important challenges. Our roles offer wide ranging opportunities to have a demonstrable impact and enable a bustling space economy.
About the role
We are seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer for the design, analysis, and optimization of complex mechanical systems, including spacecraft, structures, and mechanisms. This role involves end-to-end responsibility from conceptual design through production and operation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Mechanical Design & Analysis: Ownership of the design and analysis of spacecraft systems, structures, MGSE, and mechanisms. Develop and maintain detailed CAD models and documentation. Perform environmental and performance testing to validate designs and ensure compliance.
- System Coordination: Work closely with the Systems Engineering team to ensure mechanical systems integrate effectively with overall mission objectives and interfacing hardware.
- Design Optimization: Apply design for manufacturability (DFM) principles to enhance design efficiency, reduce component and process count, and ensure consistent performance. Rapidly iterate on designs and analyses to inform system-level trades and product direction.
- Project Management: Manage hardware for entire design lifecycle. Oversee product delivery timelines and ensure high-quality, timely outputs. Proactively identify and address technical challenges.
- Collaboration & Communication: Foster effective communication with team members and customers. Maintain positive working relationships and promote a productive work environment.
Required Qualifications:
- BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with 7+ years of experience, or MS with 5+ years of experience.
- Proficiency in CAD and analysis tools. Hands-on experience with complex mechanical systems, including design, fabrication, and testing.
- Strong background in structural analysis, GD&T, materials selection, and manufacturing methods.
- Proven ability to manage complex projects and work autonomously with a critical eye. Excellent communication, organizational, and collaborative skills.
Nice to Have:
- Experience with SolidWorks, Ansys, MATLAB, and programming languages (e.g., Python).
- Experience with spacecraft or launch vehicle operations.
- Advanced degree in an engineering discipline or related field.
The estimated salary range for this position is $120,000- $145,000
This position is a hybrid work model, requiring time both in our Lafayette, CO office and remotely.
Research shows that while men apply to jobs where they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and other marginalized people tend to only apply when they meet 100% of the qualifications. At Orbit Fab, we value respectful debate and people who aren't afraid to challenge assumptions. We strongly encourage you to apply if you feel you would succeed in the role above.
Location and Benefits
Orbit Fab is based out of Lafayette, Colorado and all roles are based in Colorado. We offer fully covered benefits, discretionary time off, and flexible work hours.
Eligibility
Some job roles may be limited to US Persons (22 CFR 120.62 "U.S. person").
Orbit Fab Inc does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.
Top Skills
What the Team is Saying
What We Do
Today, satellites cannot be refueled. A single-use paradigm severely limits satellite mobility and holds back the development of economic activities in space. Orbit Fab is building the first Gas Stations in Space™ refueling infrastructure. We develop the supply chain architecture and technology to deliver propellant in space, allowing satellites to be built for lower cost, to be more flexible and maneuverable, to be more precisely controlled, and to operate longer, enabling operations and business models that have never before been imagined..
Why Work With Us
Established in 2018, we have already flown three tankers to space; with the first one flown within one year of founding. Working closely with partners and customers across the space industry, we are making the thriving in-space economy a reality.
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Orbit Fab Offices
Hybrid Workspace
Employees engage in a combination of remote and on-site work.
We have a flexible workplace policy! Generally we require folks on-site M, W, Th, with two flex days, however our hardware engineers are in the office 5 days a week.
