Mechanisms Engineer, Payloads

About the role

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

About the Role

Apex is seeking a skilled Mechanisms Engineer, Payloads to join our satellite engineering team. In this role, you will design, develop, and test payload deployment and articulation mechanisms, including hinges, latches, actuators, release mechanisms, and other moving assemblies. You will own mechanism hardware from concept through flight, with a focus on reliable operation in the space environment.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop payload deployment and articulation mechanisms, including hinges, latches, actuators, release mechanisms, and moving assemblies.
• Own mechanism hardware from concept through design, manufacturing, integration, and test.
• Develop 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, tolerance analyses, and GD&T.
• Perform hand calculations and analysis to evaluate loads, kinematics, stiffness, life, and mechanism performance.
• Select and integrate components such as motors, bearings, springs, fasteners, and actuators.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate mechanisms with spacecraft and payload systems.
• Support hands-on assembly, integration, troubleshooting, and testing of hardware.
• Develop and execute functional, life-cycle, and environmental testing.
• Work with manufacturing and suppliers to resolve hardware and production issues.

Requirements

• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience designing and developing mechanical hardware.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., NX, SolidWorks).
• Strong understanding of mechanical design fundamentals, GD&T, and tolerance analysis.
• Strong hands-on problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing deployment, articulation, or electromechanical mechanisms for spacecraft, aerospace, robotics, or similar systems.
• Experience with actuators, hinges, latches, release mechanisms, motors, bearings, or other mechanism components.
• Experience taking mechanisms from concept through manufacturing, integration, and test.
• Experience with kinematic, structural, or mechanism analysis.
• Experience with environmental and life-cycle testing.
• Experience with NX and Teamcenter.

#LI-MO1

What We Offer for Full-time Employees

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
• Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
• Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
• World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Additional Information

Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. A candidate's specific level and base pay are determined case by case and may vary with job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity. Beyond base salary, full-time hires are also eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options, along with medical, dental, and vision coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Itar Requirements

Apex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To be eligible for this role, applicants must either (1) qualify as a U.S. Person, meaning a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee admitted under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an individual granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or (2) be able to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Commerce, or another applicable U.S. government agency.