Space Mechanical Chief Engineer

Until 9/1/2026 First posted July 3, 2026 Last posted July 3, 2026
Job description
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Space Mechanical Chief Engineer.  This position will use your detailed knowledge/experience of spacecraft and payload development in closing difficult technical challenges. This role is part of the Space Mechanical Team and supports mechanical design, structural/dynamics, thermal, guidance navigation and controls, and propulsion system architecture.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 
  • Support the development of cross architecture level trade studies and developing common interoperable architectures across the various mission space
  • Expertise in satellite bus design, autonomous systems, mission design, requirements development and verification, functional and environmental testing, and on-orbit operations
  • Support and lead the engineering staff in the analysis, investigation and resolution of routine engineering problems.
  • Lead new IRAD programs that support long term mission architectures
  • Recommend, develop, and integrate enterprise concepts and recommendations to capitalize on cross best practices, efficiencies and standardization
  • Independently perform challenging engineering work, document findings, communicate results, delivers technical presentations, and support test activities both on and off-site. Design, develop, and test all aspects of mechanical components and equipment.
  • Provide feasibility Studies and Concept Exploration
  • Lead mechanical proposal efforts and generation of white papers
  • Demonstrate strong understanding of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, structural mechanics and dynamics, as well as mechanical hardware design, fabrication techniques and test for space and military applications
  • Develop and configuration manage Interface Control Documents
  • Develop and document logistics goals, objectives, services, and programs, as well as the individual needs to meet mission requirements.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

 
About this role

Summary

Lead spacecraft mechanical design, analysis, testing, and system integration.

Job title

Space Mechanical Chief Engineer

Experience level

null

Industry

defense

Location requirements

Remote or onsite, unspecified location.

Salary

Not specified

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

spacecraft designstructural mechanicsthermal analysisguidance navigation controlspropulsion systems

Preferred skills

None specified

Specializations

spacecraftthermalstructureguidance navigation controlspropulsion
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

No structured locations extracted for this role yet.