Astra
Join to apply for the
Senior Test Design Engineer
role at
Astra
1 day ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Join to apply for the
Senior Test Design Engineer
role at
Astra
Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Astra offers low-cost orbital launch services and flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, including the Astra Spacecraft Engine.
The Opportunity As a Senior Test Engineer focused on CAD and mechanical design, you’ll develop the physical infrastructure for propulsion, avionics, and spacecraft test programs. You will take ideas from concept through CAD, fabrication, integration, and operation, enabling fast, safe, and repeatable test execution. This role suits someone who thrives on mechanical creativity and rapid iteration.
How You'll Fulfill Your Mission
Design custom test hardware, fixtures, mounts, fluid routing, and mechanical systems in CAD (SolidWorks preferred).
Own test stand mechanical design from concept through detailed drawings, release, and support during build.
Collaborate with test engineers and technicians to translate requirements into physical designs.
Support hardware integration and troubleshoot mechanical issues during setup and operation.
Create documentation and drawing packages for fabrication and field operations.
Implement design-for-simplicity and design-for-maintainability principles.
Source parts, create BOMs, and coordinate with vendors and machinists to deliver hardware on schedule.
Why We Value You
3+ years of hardware design experience (internships, labs, or personal projects are welcome).
Proficiency with 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred; NX, CATIA acceptable).
Experience designing mechanical systems involving fluid routing, pressure systems, or test equipment.
Strong understanding of manufacturing, tolerancing, and drawing best practices.
Willingness to work closely with technicians and iterate based on feedback.
Willingness to support on-site test operations in Atwater, CA.
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
Desired Multipliers
Experience with high-pressure, cryogenic, or hazardous systems design.
Familiarity with FEA or structural analysis for validation.
Experience with rapid prototyping, machine shop tools, or fabrication processes.
Experience in fast-paced aerospace or R&D environments.
The pay range is:
$130,000 - $165,000
per year.
The stated range reflects the base salary in the
San Francisco Bay Area
and excludes additional earnings such as bonuses and benefits. If your requirements differ, we encourage you to apply.
We value diverse perspectives and are committed to building an inclusive team.
Additional Information
San Francisco Applicants: We consider applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with local laws.
ITAR Requirements: This role requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, contingent upon applicant status and necessary clearances.
Job Details
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Quality Assurance
Industries: Hospitals and Health Care, Non-profit, Government
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Senior Test Design Engineer
role at
Astra
1 day ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Join to apply for the
Senior Test Design Engineer
role at
Astra
Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Astra offers low-cost orbital launch services and flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, including the Astra Spacecraft Engine.
The Opportunity As a Senior Test Engineer focused on CAD and mechanical design, you’ll develop the physical infrastructure for propulsion, avionics, and spacecraft test programs. You will take ideas from concept through CAD, fabrication, integration, and operation, enabling fast, safe, and repeatable test execution. This role suits someone who thrives on mechanical creativity and rapid iteration.
How You'll Fulfill Your Mission
Design custom test hardware, fixtures, mounts, fluid routing, and mechanical systems in CAD (SolidWorks preferred).
Own test stand mechanical design from concept through detailed drawings, release, and support during build.
Collaborate with test engineers and technicians to translate requirements into physical designs.
Support hardware integration and troubleshoot mechanical issues during setup and operation.
Create documentation and drawing packages for fabrication and field operations.
Implement design-for-simplicity and design-for-maintainability principles.
Source parts, create BOMs, and coordinate with vendors and machinists to deliver hardware on schedule.
Why We Value You
3+ years of hardware design experience (internships, labs, or personal projects are welcome).
Proficiency with 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred; NX, CATIA acceptable).
Experience designing mechanical systems involving fluid routing, pressure systems, or test equipment.
Strong understanding of manufacturing, tolerancing, and drawing best practices.
Willingness to work closely with technicians and iterate based on feedback.
Willingness to support on-site test operations in Atwater, CA.
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
Desired Multipliers
Experience with high-pressure, cryogenic, or hazardous systems design.
Familiarity with FEA or structural analysis for validation.
Experience with rapid prototyping, machine shop tools, or fabrication processes.
Experience in fast-paced aerospace or R&D environments.
The pay range is:
$130,000 - $165,000
per year.
The stated range reflects the base salary in the
San Francisco Bay Area
and excludes additional earnings such as bonuses and benefits. If your requirements differ, we encourage you to apply.
We value diverse perspectives and are committed to building an inclusive team.
Additional Information
San Francisco Applicants: We consider applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with local laws.
ITAR Requirements: This role requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, contingent upon applicant status and necessary clearances.
Job Details
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Quality Assurance
Industries: Hospitals and Health Care, Non-profit, Government
#J-18808-Ljbffr