Space Technology, Aerospace, Satellite Communications

Mechanical Engineer III - Tank Development Lead

RockvilleOnsiteFull TimeLeadCA$125,000–CA$175,000 /yrPosted 5 days ago

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Required skills

Mechanical Engineer
Tank Development
Propulsion Tanks
flight hardware
mechanical components
subsystems
requirements definition
detailed design
manufacturing
assembly

Nice to have

Spacecraft integration
Launch Vehicle integration
mass properties
alignment
configuration capture
as-built management

Role summary

Quantum Space is seeking a Mechanical Engineer III - Tank Development Lead to oversee the design, development, integration, and testing of flight hardware for spacecraft propulsion tanks. This role involves end-to-end ownership of mechanical components and subsystems, from requirements definition to manufacturing and testing. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical design expertise, hands-on aerospace hardware development experience, and proficiency in Creo. Responsibilities include driving interface closure, supporting spacecraft builds, developing verification plans, and coordinating with suppliers. The position is based in 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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