Mechanical Engineer I - Space Hardware

This position requires access to export-controlled technology. Only U.S. citizens or nationals are eligible. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

IRPI develops advanced space-exploration hardware for lunar, Martian, and low-Earth-orbit missions—spanning propellant management, hydroponics, life-science lab tools, heat exchangers, suit subsystems, and waste-management devices. We transform ideas into qualified flight hardware through rapid analysis, design, prototyping, and testing. If you are a mechanically minded engineer who loves turning bold concepts into real space systems, we want to meet you.

Your Mission

Join a fast-moving, cross-disciplinary team that turns advanced concepts into space-qualified hardware. As an entry-level Mechanical Engineer, you will learn from senior engineers while contributing directly to design, analysis, prototyping, and testing of flight-ready components for low-Earth-orbit, lunar, and Martian missions.

Key Responsibilities

Design Support:

• Assist senior engineers with layouts and trade studies for mechanical, thermal, and fluid systems.
• Contribute ideas during whiteboard sessions and design reviews.

Model & Document

• Build and revise SolidWorks parts, assemblies, and detailed drawings.
• Maintain bills of materials and configuration control.

Prototype & Build

• Operate additive manufacturing equipment, basic CNC, and shop tools to fabricate prototypes and fixtures.
• Assemble test articles and assist in flight-hardware builds.

Experiment & Validate

• Instrument hardware, execute test procedures, and collect data for a variety of fluid-thermal systems.
• Troubleshoot test setups and document deviations.

Data Reduction

• Process test data using Excel, MATLAB, or Python; generate clear plots and engineering conclusions.

Collaboration & Growth

• Work closely with multidisciplinary IRPI teams, NASA partners, and suppliers.
• Seek mentorship, embrace feedback, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and high integrity.

This role is ideal for early-career engineers who are hands-on, have a strong work ethic, are curious, and eager to develop full-lifecycle hardware skills while supporting real space missions.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related field)

• Solid grasp of thermodynamics, heat-transfer, fluid mechanics, and strength of materials.

• Proficiency in SolidWorks for parts, assemblies, and detailed drawings (or equivalent 3D CAD)
• Demonstrated hands-on aptitude—prototype fabrication, test‐rig assembly, and use of common shop tools
• Clear, concise technical writing and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with a research/design focus
• 1–2 years professional experience gained through internships, co-ops, senior projects, or research assistantships
• Working knowledge of FEA/CFD and data-analysis scripting in MATLAB or Python
• Experience with test instrumentation and data acquisition (e.g., LabVIEW)
• Familiarity with additive manufacturing and CAM workflows
• Exposure to aerospace qualification standards (NASA-STD-5001, MIL-STD-1540, or similar)

Benefits

Compensation & Perks

• Base salary: $78,000 – $95,000 DOE
• Medical and Dental Insurance
• Retirement Plan Contributions
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and U.S. holidays
• Paid parental leave

How to Apply

If your experience covers most—but not all—of the requirements, apply to the role that best matches your background. Our hiring team reviews every application holistically and may recommend you for another current or upcoming position that aligns even better with your skills.

Equal Opportunity Employer

IRPI is committed to equal employment opportunity. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status.