Mechanical Engineer III

Mechanical Engineer III The Mechanical Engineer III role focuses on providing imaginative and practical solutions to wide-ranging technical problems that are consistent with organizational objectives. The position requires a complete understanding and application of technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts, as well as general knowledge of related disciplines. The role involves working independently under general direction, taking ownership of discrete technical packages as a Responsible Engineer (RE), and providing guidance to less experienced engineers. Responsibilities Support and execute ground operations for test, launch, and landing campaigns at sites across multiple facilities. Perform spacecraft and launch vehicle processing activities including MES authoring, procedure validation, integration operations, and post‑flight recovery. Execute hazardous operations procedures, maintain facility protocols, and verify compliance with range safety and quality requirements. Coordinate with cross‑functional teams including engineering, quality, launch vehicle providers, and range operations to support mission success. Document processing activities, anomalies, and lessons learned. Travel required to support field operations at government‑regulated aerospace facilities and commercial spaceports during campaign execution phases. Support spacecraft processing from end of production through integrated test into launch and landing, including MES authoring and ownership, procedure validation, payload integration, propellant loading operations, electrical and mechanical checkouts, configuration management, flight hardware handling, and logistics coordination. Perform spacecraft integration activities with launch vehicles, including mating to adapters, encapsulation within payload fairings, and interface verification. Validate Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and verify compliance with launch provider requirements. Execute hazardous procedures for propellant loading and other critical activities while maintaining clean room protocols to prevent contamination. Verify compliance with range safety requirements and quality standards. Support risk assessments for non‑standard operations. Document processing activities and anomalies and incorporate lessons learned into procedures and processes. Support coordination with launch vehicle teams, range operations, mission/flight operations, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and other stakeholders. Communicate with external stakeholders including program customers and launch providers during launch campaigns. Work under general direction to independently identify and resolve design goals and challenges. Take design engineering ownership of small programs and/or discrete technical packages that may include role as Responsible Engineer (RE). Collect and analyze data related to mechanical systems, propulsion, structures, structural analysis, or environmental systems. Provide solutions to wide‑ranging technical problems that are imaginative, thorough, practical, and consistent with organization objectives. Prepare detailed technical documentation and reports to communicate findings and support project objectives. Provide mentoring and coaching to junior engineers, fostering their technical and professional development. Work effectively within cross‑functional teams to achieve project goals and meet deadlines. Frequently communicate with external and internal stakeholders to support project objectives and deliver quality products on time and in budget. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Master’s +3 years experience). Typically 5+ years of related experience. Expertise in Mechanical Engineering technical standards, principles, theories, concepts, and techniques and general knowledge of related disciplines. Experience managing discrete technical packages as a Responsible Engineer (RE). Ability to provide guidance to entry‑level engineers. Ability to provide solutions to wide‑ranging technical problems that are imaginative, thorough, practical, and consistent with organization objectives. Ability to work under general direction to independently determine and develop approaches to solutions. Preferred Qualifications Strong working knowledge of design, analysis, and test methods, tools, and processes related to mechanical systems, propulsion, structures, and/or environmental systems. Proficiency with engineering CAD tools such as NX, SolidWorks, or similar, including advanced understanding of detail drawing standards and GD&T. Experience with project management and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail. Excellent communication and presentation skills. Ability to work independently and within a team, demonstrating effective collaboration skills. Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and deliver high‑quality results. Working knowledge of manufacturing processes, material sciences, and their impact on mechanical systems. Experience with end‑item testing and validation, including the ability to design and execute complex test plans. Compensation Pay Range: $110,664.00 - $152,184.00 (base compensation determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on experience, education, and market competitive factors). Benefits Medical, dental, and vision plans. 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%. Life insurance. 3 weeks paid time off. Additional benefits available. Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. 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