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Astrolab

Payloads Integration Engineer

Astrolab, Hawthorne, California, United States, 90250

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Overview

Venturi Astrolab, Inc. designs, builds, and operates a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanitys presence in the solar system. We are seeking a Payload Integration Engineer to join our team, focusing on integrating complex payloads into rover platforms for successful assembly, testing, and launch of space missions. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with spacecraft systems and a deep understanding of the technical challenges of integrating sensitive, high-value payloads. Responsibilities

Integration: Own the integration of full payload systems, interfacing with avionics and software teams to ensure payloads are mounted, harnesses are correctly routed, and components are functional from design through protoqualification. Design and Analysis: Develop flight payload structures, understand packaging constraints, vehicle placement, and proximity to other system components and payloads. Conduct thermal, structural, and vibration analysis using FEA tools (e.g., FEMAP, Ansys, NASTRAN). Perform first-order analysis and hand calculations. Prototyping and Testing: Lead the design, fabrication, and assembly of payload structural assemblies. Develop and execute test plans for environmental qualification, including TVAC, Vibration, Shock, Acoustic, and EMI testing. Materials Selection: Select appropriate materials and processes for payload assemblies, considering mass, thermal properties, and damage resistance to radiation, EMI, and outgassing in vacuum environments. Documentation: Create and maintain detailed design documentation, including 3D models, 2D drawings, and test reports. Collaboration: Work closely with electrical engineers, manufacturing teams, and program managers to ensure designs meet performance, schedule, and cost requirements. Qualifications

Whats Prepared You: Education: Bachelors or Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. Experience: 3+ years of experience in satellite, spacecraft, or similar complex system integration. Technical Skills: FEA Expertise: Proficient in finite element analysis software for thermal and structural analysis. CAD Proficiency: Strong skills in 3D CAD software (NX, SolidWorks, Creo). Materials Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of aerospace materials, including aluminum alloys, composites, and thermal interface materials. Testing: Demonstrated experience with spacecraft hardware and tooling. Cleanroom procedures: Familiarity with cleanroom environments and contamination control protocols. Payload and Instrumentation: Experience with payloads such as optical sensors, communication antennas, and scientific instruments. Additional Skills: Knowledge of launch vehicle and range safety requirements. Experience with configuration management and quality assurance in a space environment. Experience with wiring harness design and production. Basic scripting skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for test automation and data analysis are a plus. What We Offer

Work with a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration Ownership in the company Medical, dental, and vision coverage 401(k) with matching Flexible time off and parental leave On-site snacks, beverages, and 2x weekly lunches Flexible work environment About Astrolab

Astrolab is committed to an inclusive and inspired team and to diversity of perspective. We value trust, balance, diverse viewpoints, purposeful action, and making an impact as core to our work. Equal opportunity statement: Astrolab is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, gender identity, parental or pregnancy status, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, or veteran status. If you need assistance or reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please email careers@astrolab.space. If youre reading this and can contribute, please consider registering your interest. #J-18808-Ljbffr