Senior Mechanisms Design Engineer – Solar Array Seen this week
About the Role
Apex is looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer - Solar Array to help design, analyze, and qualify the mechanical systems that make solar arrays deploy and function flawlessly. This role is deeply hands-on and highly cross-functional. You will go from concept sketches to flight-qualified hardware in a fast-paced environment where your work is critical to mission success.
Responsibilities
- Own the mechanical design of solar array subassemblies and related deployment mechanisms
- Drive system-level and component-level trade studies to identify optimal mechanical configurations
- Build CAD models across the full design lifecycle from concept to detailed, manufacturable parts
- Perform engineering analyses, including structural, dynamic, and thermal simulations
- Define detailed manufacturing requirements through part drawings and documentation
- Create and maintain supporting documentation including BOMs, materials specs, and mass models
- Contribute to test plans and verification strategies, and participate in qualification campaigns
- Present designs and analysis at internal reviews and provide clear technical documentation
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline
- 6+ years of hands-on experience designing and qualifying mechanisms for space applications
- Strong CAD proficiency (NX preferred)
- Skilled in structural, thermal, and dynamic analysis methods and tools
- Fluent in GD&T and mechanical tolerancing practices
- Familiarity with components commonly used in space mechanisms such as motors, hinges, actuators, bearings, and hold-down systems
- Understanding of electromechanical systems and motor control electronics
- Experience with design-for-manufacturing (DFM/DFX) principles
- Comfortable supporting environmental testing including vibe, shock, thermal, and thermal-vacuum
- Excellent communication, organization, and technical presentation skills
Compensation
Salary Range: $145,000 - $195,000 per year
What We Offer
- Equity in Apex
- 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
- Comprehensive PTO starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
- Competitive 401(k) plan with 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
- 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
- Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks
- Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and family gatherings
- Equipment and tools to support your productivity
- In-person collaboration at Playa Vista office with flexibility to integrate work and life