Job Description

Senior Mechanical Engineer – Ground Systems (Launch Infrastructure) Onsite – Bay Area, CA; $140,000 – $180,000 + Bonus & Benefits; US Citizens or US Persons only (due to ITAR regulations).

We’re working with a next-generation space launch company that’s redefining how rockets are launched—literally. They’re building modular, mobile launch infrastructure that can be shipped anywhere in the world and deployed rapidly. Think: a launchpad that is designed to operate from virtually any remote location.

This is a hardware-led team developing scalable, ultra-low-cost launch solutions in a fast-moving environment. Their mission? Rapid-response access to space at a cadence that puts legacy providers to shame.

To support their upcoming launch campaigns, they’re now hiring a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and integration of ground fluid systems, including propellant loading, fire suppression, environmental control, and other pad-critical infrastructure.

Your Mission

You’ll be part of a small, high-performing Ground Systems team, responsible for turning blank sheets of paper into working systems—fast. This role focuses on the design and build of mechanical and fluidic systems to support rocket testing and launches. The equipment you develop will be deployed in real-world environments and form a cornerstone of their ability to launch from anywhere, anytime.

What You’ll Work On

• Design fluid and mechanical systems in CAD (NX preferred)
• Create and maintain P&IDs and flow diagrams
• Define startup, shutdown, and emergency procedures
• Perform thermal/fluid analysis for system sizing and validation
• Oversee build, integration, and field testing of systems
• Collaborate with propulsion, avionics, and launch operations teams
• Drive performance improvements and maintainability for deployed systems
• Occasionally assist with structural mechanisms (release systems, rigging)

Ideal Background

• 5+ years of experience in mechanical/process/fluid systems engineering
• Track record designing and building complex piping or process systems (aerospace, automotive, oil & gas, chemical, food processing, etc.)
• Hands-on experience getting hardware into the field and making it work
• Proficient in CAD and fluid system layout
• Experience with cryogenic, high-pressure, or pyrophoric systems
• Familiarity with standards such as ASME B31.3, AWS D10.18, etc.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Chemical, Process, or Aerospace Engineering

Bonus Points For

• Experience designing deployable/fielded systems (e.g., military, mobile labs, trailers, etc.)
• Aerospace/launchpad safety standards or GSE/EGSE experience
• Ability to move between structural and fluid systems as needed
• Passion for hardware – whether it’s rockets, race cars, or industrial systems
• Strong ownership mindset – you’ve taken a system from napkin sketch to finished product

What Makes This Team Special:

• They build real systems . If you like cutting steel and turning wrenches, you’ll love this.
• It’s hands-on engineering at the heart of launch operations, not buried in a spreadsheet.
• The team is lean. You’ll get full ownership , creative freedom, and real career growth.
• You’ll be involved in design, build, test, and launch . Not just one part of the process.
• You’ll help build infrastructure that goes to remote sites and launches rockets . From scratch.

Relocation assistance available. 100% Onsite in the Bay Area – no remote options. 2-stage process: Technical screen + final manager call. CEO often calls final-stage candidates directly for a quick intro chat.

Drop your CV or reach out for a confidential chat.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Adam Slade

Job Tags

Similar Jobs