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Approach Venture

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Approach Venture, Camarillo, California, United States, 93012

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Senior Mechanical Engineer – Lead Full-Cycle Development of Space Hardware!

Camarillo, CA | On-Site

Opportunity Summary A growing aerospace technology company is expanding its engineering team to support new space hardware programs across multiple customers. This organization develops high-reliability RF electronics and precision mechanical assemblies for spacecraft, and they are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer who can take full ownership of mechanical design from concept through delivery. The role is hands‑on and highly cross‑functional, offering the opportunity to work directly with RF, PCB, test, and manufacturing teams while developing flight‑ready hardware that operates in demanding launch and orbital environments. You will lead mechanical design, analysis, packaging, and prototyping for components used in mission‑critical satellite communication systems. With a high mix of programs and a fast‑moving environment, this position offers an ideal combination of established tooling and infrastructure with the agility, ownership, and variety typically seen in startup environments. Engineers here influence every stage of the product lifecycle and directly shape outcomes for active space missions.

About Us We are a California‑based engineering and manufacturing organization that builds advanced hardware for aerospace and defense applications. Our vertically integrated capabilities allow us to design, model, prototype, test, qualify, and assemble products entirely in‑house. This structure enables engineers to make rapid design decisions, iterate quickly, and maintain full visibility across the entire production process. With growing program demand and expanding product lines, we continue to invest in new technologies and engineering talent to deliver high‑performance space hardware with exceptional reliability.

Job Duties

Lead the full lifecycle of mechanical hardware development from initial concept through final delivery

Perform structural, thermal, vibration, and environmental analyses to ensure components survive launch and operate reliably on orbit

Own CAD modeling, detailed engineering drawings, and mechanical documentation (SolidWorks preferred)

Conduct simulations and FEA to validate performance and drive design improvements

Rapidly prototype mechanisms, packaging concepts, and assemblies in a low‑volume, high‑mix manufacturing environment

Collaborate with RF engineers to integrate microwave and high‑frequency electronics into robust mechanical housings

Partner with PCB designers to support assembly layout, thermal strategies, vibration stability, and packaging requirements

Participate in qualification testing and ensure compliance with aerospace design standards and environmental requirements

Produce clear documentation and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across mechanical and cross‑functional teams

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a closely related field

5+ years of experience in mechanical or electromechanical design and analysis

Strong background in CAD modeling and FEA (SolidWorks preferred)

Proficiency in GD&T and engineering drawing best practices

Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multidisciplinary engineering teams

Self‑motivated, detail‑oriented, and comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment

Preferred Experience

Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related discipline

8+ years of engineering experience in aerospace, preferably supporting electronics packaging or microwave hardware for space applications

Familiarity with CNC machining, precision fabrication, and low‑volume manufacturing workflows

Experience taking designs through concept, iteration, qualification, and production release

Proficiency with rapid prototyping methods and short development cycles

Prior work with microwave assemblies, high‑frequency electronics, or mechanical packaging for RF systems

Experience supporting PCB layout considerations, thermal mitigation, vibration management, and mechanical integration

Why Join Us

Ability to own product designs end‑to‑end within a dynamic, engineering‑driven environment

Strong role autonomy with exposure to multiple programs and hardware types

Competitive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage

Robust PTO policy and paid company holidays

9/80 work schedule supporting work‑life balance

401(k) program with company match

Collaborative culture centered on innovation, technical rigor, and continuous improvement

Compensation Details $100,000 – $155,000

Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type Full‑time

Job Function Engineering and Information Technology

Industries Defense and Space Manufacturing, Space Research and Technology, and Manufacturing

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