Approach Venture LLC
Senior Mechanical Engineer - Spacecraft Mechanisms
Approach Venture LLC, Denver, Colorado, United States, 80299
Mechanical Engineer - Help Design Self-Assembling Space Architectures from the Ground Up!
Denver, CO | Hybrid
Opportunity Summary
An ambitious early-stage startup is building modular, self-assembling structures for future space applications. Think scalable platforms, orbital infrastructure, and adaptable in-space systems. Backed by top-tier investors and operating in stealth, the company is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineer to take the lead on mechanical design for the next generation of electromagnetic structural systems.
This role blends analytical design, iterative prototyping, and field testing of mechanical assemblies that enable intelligent docking, structural interlocking, and thermal/power transfer across modular spacecraft components.
About Us
We're a venture-backed, stealth-mode aerospace startup developing autonomous, self-assembling hardware architectures designed for orbital and deep space environments. Our team includes alumni from leading space and hardware companies, and we're focused on building scalable systems that unlock a new era of modularity in orbit. With funding secured and early prototypes already under development, we're pushing forward at full speed.
Job Duties Own the design, analysis, and prototyping of a modular hex-tile structure integrating electromagnetic docking, structural interlocks, and power/thermal transfer Build and refine CAD models for custom assemblies and testbeds, and generate complete drawing packages for manufacturing and integration Lead hands-on testing, including benchtop magnetic interaction experiments, thermal cycling, and fixture development Conduct structural and thermal simulations using FEA tools to validate performance across orbital environments Collaborate closely with avionics, embedded systems, and systems engineering to ensure full-stack integration Specify components and materials suited for spaceflight, including actuators, adhesives, interconnects, and thermals Support in drafting and executing test plans and verification documents for key systems and assemblies
Qualifications BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering 6+ years of experience in the design, analysis, and validation of mechanical or electromechanical hardware for space or high-reliability environments 2+ years working on systems that include motors, magnetic actuators, or embedded sensors Proficient in 3D CAD software (NX, SolidWorks or Fusion acceptable) Skilled in thermal and structural simulation, tolerance stack-up, and design for assembly (DFA/DFM) Comfortable with hands-on prototyping and R&D, including adhesives, test fixtures, and precision builds
Preferred Experience Familiarity with electromagnetic coil integration, structural dynamics, and vibration testing Advanced understanding of GD&T, mass property modeling, and design for extreme environments Experience with space-rated mechanisms such as hinges, dampers, or hold-down release systems Prior exposure to subsystem-level integration in small satellite or modular robotics projects
Why Join Us Opportunity to shape and scale hardware that redefines in-space architecture Be a founding contributor at a fast-moving, well-funded startup Flexible, high-autonomy work environment Competitive salary and equity participation Full medical, dental, and vision coverage Access to a fully equipped hardware prototyping and testing facility Direct collaboration with technical founders and early team
Compensation Details
$100,000 - $160,000 plus equity
#LI-AV
Denver, CO | Hybrid
Opportunity Summary
An ambitious early-stage startup is building modular, self-assembling structures for future space applications. Think scalable platforms, orbital infrastructure, and adaptable in-space systems. Backed by top-tier investors and operating in stealth, the company is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineer to take the lead on mechanical design for the next generation of electromagnetic structural systems.
This role blends analytical design, iterative prototyping, and field testing of mechanical assemblies that enable intelligent docking, structural interlocking, and thermal/power transfer across modular spacecraft components.
About Us
We're a venture-backed, stealth-mode aerospace startup developing autonomous, self-assembling hardware architectures designed for orbital and deep space environments. Our team includes alumni from leading space and hardware companies, and we're focused on building scalable systems that unlock a new era of modularity in orbit. With funding secured and early prototypes already under development, we're pushing forward at full speed.
Job Duties Own the design, analysis, and prototyping of a modular hex-tile structure integrating electromagnetic docking, structural interlocks, and power/thermal transfer Build and refine CAD models for custom assemblies and testbeds, and generate complete drawing packages for manufacturing and integration Lead hands-on testing, including benchtop magnetic interaction experiments, thermal cycling, and fixture development Conduct structural and thermal simulations using FEA tools to validate performance across orbital environments Collaborate closely with avionics, embedded systems, and systems engineering to ensure full-stack integration Specify components and materials suited for spaceflight, including actuators, adhesives, interconnects, and thermals Support in drafting and executing test plans and verification documents for key systems and assemblies
Qualifications BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering 6+ years of experience in the design, analysis, and validation of mechanical or electromechanical hardware for space or high-reliability environments 2+ years working on systems that include motors, magnetic actuators, or embedded sensors Proficient in 3D CAD software (NX, SolidWorks or Fusion acceptable) Skilled in thermal and structural simulation, tolerance stack-up, and design for assembly (DFA/DFM) Comfortable with hands-on prototyping and R&D, including adhesives, test fixtures, and precision builds
Preferred Experience Familiarity with electromagnetic coil integration, structural dynamics, and vibration testing Advanced understanding of GD&T, mass property modeling, and design for extreme environments Experience with space-rated mechanisms such as hinges, dampers, or hold-down release systems Prior exposure to subsystem-level integration in small satellite or modular robotics projects
Why Join Us Opportunity to shape and scale hardware that redefines in-space architecture Be a founding contributor at a fast-moving, well-funded startup Flexible, high-autonomy work environment Competitive salary and equity participation Full medical, dental, and vision coverage Access to a fully equipped hardware prototyping and testing facility Direct collaboration with technical founders and early team
Compensation Details
$100,000 - $160,000 plus equity
#LI-AV