Chief Engineer, Defense
Location
San Francisco
Employment Type
Full time
Department
Defense Systems
Compensation
$220K – $300K
Overview
Application
ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE:
We are seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the technical development of applications of our aircraft in direct support of the military. This is a senior leadership role responsible for the integrity, performance, and successful delivery of the aircraft across all engineering disciplines. The Chief Engineer will serve as the top technical authority on this aircraft, balancing rigorous engineering standards with the schedule and budget realities of a fast-moving aerospace development effort.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Technical Leadership: Drive aircraft development across all subsystems — propulsion, aerostructures, avionics, flight controls, thermal management, and systems integration — to achieve performance, safety, and mission objectives
Stakeholder Communication: Communicate clearly and proactively with internal teams and external stakeholders (customers, defense agencies, suppliers, and regulatory bodies) on technical developments, design challenges, risk mitigation, and path forward
Design Authority: Serve as the final engineering authority on design decisions, ensuring configuration control and technical baseline integrity across the program
Requirements Management: Translate defense customer and mission requirements into engineering specifications, ensuring traceability from requirements through design, test, and verification
Risk Management: Identify, track, and mitigate technical risks; lead root-cause investigations and corrective action for critical design or test issues
Cross-Functional Coordination: Align engineering, manufacturing, quality, flight test, and program management teams around a unified technical plan
Team Development: Mentor and grow a high-performing engineering organization, fostering a culture of technical excellence and accountability
Test & Certification Support: Guide analysis, ground test, and flight test campaigns to validate performance and support certification/airworthiness milestones
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master's or PhD preferred)
10+ years of experience in aircraft design and development, with significant experience in flight vehicles
Prior experience supporting defense or military aerospace programs, including familiarity with defense acquisition processes
Demonstrated experience owning technical, schedule, and cost outcomes on a complex aerospace program
Deep working knowledge of aircraft systems integration (propulsion, structures, aerodynamics, avionics)
Strong track record of engaging with government customers, prime contractors, or defense agencies
U.S. citizenship required; Secret Clearance required, Top Secret desired
Experience with modern tactical mission systems integrations and their architectures
Familiarity with MIL-STD and DoD airworthiness certification processes
Experience leading engineering teams through early-stage (pre-production/prototype) development
PERKS & BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
Flexible work environment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Apply for this Job
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Engineering
89 days ago
Mechanical Systems Design Engineer
Astro Mechanica · San Francisco, California, United States
Mechanical Systems Design Engineer
Location
San Francisco
Employment Type
Full time
Department
Airframe
Compensation
$135K – $170K
Overview
Application
ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE:
Astro Mechanica is seeking an experienced Mechanical Systems Design Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is someone who can take full ownership of hardware design from concept to production and has a deep understanding of their impact on surrounding systems. Technical challenges are resolved from first principles. Your work at Astro Mechanica will have a direct impact on the configuration and performance of the Astro Mechanica demonstrator aircraft.
In this role, your mission will be to shepherd novel airframe integration and component hardware from whiteboard design through analysis, qualification, vehicle integration, and aircraft flight.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Perform trade studies and first-order analyses to inform component design and system architecture decisions
Complete detailed component designs and drawings. Validate your designs with structural, thermal, and/or fluid analyses
Collaborate closely with propulsion, structures, avionics, controls, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless component and system integration
Work with suppliers to specify, select, and qualify off-the-shelf and/or custom components
Develop and conduct hardware test plans and analyze data to verify requirements and performance metrics meet design intent
Provide hands-on support during prototyping, vehicle builds, ground testing, and flight test campaigns
Participate in technical reviews, generate clear documentation, and contribute to safety and hazard analyses
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
2–5+ years of experience designing, integrating, or testing fluid or mechanical systems
Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, precision measurement and GD&T
Proficiency in 3D CAD tools (NX, CATIA V5, SolidWorks, or similar) for routing, packaging, and component design
Solid understanding of mechanical system, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer fundamentals and analysis methods
Hands-on experience with hardware— fabrication, assembly, or testing
Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks)
Comfortable operating in a fast-moving, evolving development environment
PERKS & BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
Flexible work environment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Apply for this Job
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Engineering
96 days ago
Mechanical Systems Engineer, Gearbox
Astro Mechanica · San Francisco, California, United States
Mechanical Systems Engineer, Gearbox
Location
San Francisco
Employment Type
Full time
Location Type
On-site
Department
Propulsion
Compensation
$150K – $225K
Overview
Application
ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE:
Astro Mechanica is looking for a Mechanical Systems engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is someone who has a deep-seated understanding of complex system dynamics and can take full ownership of design and validation of high-speed power transmission systems. Your work at Astro Mechanica will have a direct impact on the configuration and performance of the turboelectric adaptive jet engine.
In this role, your mission will be to architect, analyze, build, and test critical power transmission systems to power the electric propulsion systems. You will collaborate between propulsion, aircraft, and test teams to deliver optimized transmission hardware for the flight vehicle, proven through rigorous ground testing. You are attentive to detail and enjoy solving nuanced, interconnected problems.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Architect high-performance, high-speed geartrain systems with consideration for high-speed rotordynamic effects, lubrication, and highly integrated interfaces
Perform gear design calculations (AGMA/ISO standards), including load capacity, contact stress, and bending fatigue
Conduct dynamic analysis of rotating systems including vibration, critical speed, and noise, vibration, harshness (KissSoft, Simcenter, SMT MASTA, Ansys)
Design and analyze custom shaft, bearing, housing, and lubrication system hardware and establish subsystem testing to validate component performance
Specify qualification testing and analyze test data for hardware behavior and performance characterization
Improve and maintain the accuracy of simulation models through anchoring to historical and internally generated test data
Define instrumentation placement with understanding of measurement limitations
Diagnose hardware/software problems efficiently and perform corrective actions
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
5+ years hands-on experience with transmission design and/or test in automotive, aerospace, or power generation applications
Foundational knowledge of rotordynamics, fatigue effects, lubrication systems, and transmission failure modes
Familiarity with test instrumentation, data reduction, and anchoring analysis with experimental results
Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks)
Flexibility to work in a fast-paced and high-growth environment
Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality in all work
PERKS & BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
Flexible work environment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Apply for this Job
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Engineering
108 days ago
Senior Power Electronics Engineer
Astro Mechanica · San Francisco, California, United States
Senior Power Electronics Engineer
Location
San Francisco
Employment Type
Full time
Department
Avionics
Compensation
$175K – $230K
Overview
Application
ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE:
Astro Mechanica is looking for a Senior Electrical Engineer focused on power electronics and power systems development to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is excited about designing cutting-edge power electronics in high reliability applications and has a proven track record of quickly bringing concepts to life. You will be responsible for the full product life cycle, from initial concept to delivery and operation. Your work at Astro Mechanica will be fast-paced in a dynamic startup environment and will have a direct impact on our mission.
If necessary, we will adjust the job level to suit your experience and responsibilities. The qualifications below are just that – desired – if you feel you’re highly qualified for this role but are missing a few of the below line items, we encourage you to apply anyway.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Develop high-performance, high-density, high-reliability power converters
Own system trades, component selection, analysis, schematic capture, layout, bring-up, debugging, manufacturing, and test
Support hardware through prototyping, characterization, ground testing and flight
Work closely with other engineering disciplines to design, develop and optimize high-power propulsion and generation systems
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
BS, MS, or PhD with focus on power electronics or equivalent
5+ years of experience designing, building, testing, and shipping power converters
Ability to develop component and system trade studies through high degrees of ambiguity
Experience bringing at least two products through full lifecycle, from concept to production
Experience working on high voltage (up to 1000V) and/or high power (>10kW) converters
Expertise in various DC-DC and DC-AC power conversion topologies, preferably with high frequency multilevel architectures
Intimate understanding of electric machines and motor control methodologies
Expertise in optimizing switching power loops to optimize converter performance and minimize EMI
Proficiency in circuit board layout for high-density converters (Altium preferred)
Proficiency with analysis tools to simulate and optimize circuit and system performance (LTSPICE, PLECS, Simulink, Scripting, etc)
Proficiency in modeling time-domain dynamic circuit and system behavior
Working understanding of structural and thermal considerations for power converters
Experience with automating hardware test and development functions
PERKS & BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
Flexible work environment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Apply for this Job
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Engineering
109 days ago
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer
Astro Mechanica · San Francisco, California, United States
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer
Location
San Francisco
Employment Type
Full time
Department
Propulsion
Compensation
$150K – $225K
Overview
Application
ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We're a team of hardcore engineers who live and breathe aerospace. We’re generalists who each have subject matter expertise and operate in a flat organizational structure. We move fast and build world-changing technology in a pragmatic and competent workplace culture.
WHO YOU ARE:
Astro Mechanica is seeking an experienced Senior Propulsion Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is someone who can take full ownership of hardware design from concept to production, and has a deep understanding of their impact on surrounding systems. Technical challenges are resolved from first principles. Your work at Astro Mechanica will have a direct impact on the configuration and performance of the Duality™ engine.
In this role, your mission will be to shepherd our innovative jet engine and subsystems hardware from early prototype through flight qualification, vehicle integration, and aircraft flight. You embody the test-like-you-fly philosophy.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Ideate on design trade studies while considering system-level impacts
Complete detailed design and support with structural, thermal, fluid analyses
Present design reviews and solicit feedback from stakeholders
Assemble prototypes firsthand, design complementary tooling, establish work instructions
Conduct hardware test and analyze data to verify requirements and performance metrics
Diagnose hardware problems efficiently and determine corrective actions
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
7+ years hands-on experience with fluidic and mechanical systems, propulsion systems
Proficient in solid, surface, and sheet metal CAD modeling (Siemens NX)
Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, precision measurement and GD&T
Understanding of propulsion systems, heat transfer, thermodynamics, and turbomachinery
Experience with data acquisition, instrumentation, and power electronics
Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks)
Flexibility to work in fast-paced environment
Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality in all work
PERKS AND BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
Flexible work environment
Company-funded perks, including weekly team lunches and Astro Mechanica swag
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Apply for this Job
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Listed by Astro Mechanica for a position based in the United States. Employers on this board attest they are hiring domestically.
Engineering
138 days ago
Entry-Level Propulsion Design Engineer
Astro Mechanica · San Francisco, California, United States
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE:
Astro Mechanica is seeking a Propulsion Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is someone who can take full ownership of hardware design from concept to production, and has a deep understanding of their impact on surrounding systems. Technical challenges are resolved from first principles. Your work at Astro Mechanica will have a direct impact on the configuration and performance of the Duality™ engine.
In this role, your mission will be to design, analyze, and validate critical propulsion systems from early prototype through flight qualification, vehicle integration, and aircraft flight. You embody the test-like-you-fly philosophy.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Ideate on design trade studies while considering system-level impacts
Complete detailed design and support with structural, thermal, fluid analyses
Present design reviews and solicit feedback from stakeholders
Assemble prototypes firsthand, design complementary tooling, establish work instructions
Conduct hardware test and analyze data to verify requirements and performance metrics
Diagnose hardware problems efficiently and determine corrective actions
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
Club, project, or intern-level hands-on experience with fluidic and mechanical systems, propulsion systems
Proficient in solid, surface, and sheet metal CAD modeling (Siemens NX)
Exposure to manufacturing processes, precision measurement and GD&T
Understanding of heat transfer, thermodynamics, and turbomachinery
Exposure to data acquisition, instrumentation, and power electronics
Desire for continuous improvement
Flexibility to work in fast-paced environment
Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality in all work
PERKS AND BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
Flexible work environment
Company-funded perks, including weekly team lunches and Astro Mechanica swag
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Listed by Astro Mechanica for a position based in the United States. Employers on this board attest they are hiring domestically.
Engineering
150 days ago
Senior Propulsion Engineer, Combustion
Astro Mechanica · San Francisco, California, United States
Senior Propulsion Engineer, Combustion
Location
San Francisco
Employment Type
Full time
Department
Propulsion
Compensation
$150K – $225K
Overview
Application
ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE:
You are a Senior Propulsion Engineer experienced in designing the combustion devices within propulsion systems. You come from a background working in ground power, aviation, automotive, or rocketry. You approach your work from a robust set of first principles which enable you to work methodically through challenging technical problems with feedback from test verification.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Lead conceptual trades for novel combustors while considering system-level impacts
Complete detailed designs with supporting structural, thermal, and fluid analyses
Implement advanced materials and manufacturing techniques to achieve performance and reliability at scale
Assemble prototypes firsthand, design complementary tooling, and establish work instructions
Conduct hardware test and analyze data to verify requirements and performance metrics
Understand empirical trends and iterate quickly through component-level and integrated testing
Diagnose hardware problems efficiently and determine corrective actions
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
5+ years hands-on experience designing combustion devices for use in propulsion or similarly complex environments
Expertise in design and analysis of airbreathing combustors, igniters, and fuel systems
Proficient in CAD solid body and surface modeling (Siemens NX), engineering drawings, and GD&T
Strong understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid behavior
Hands-on prototype assembly and test stand experience
Experience with data acquisition and instrumentation selection for analyzing stability and performance in elevated temperate environments
Understanding and familiarity with high-temperature materials, coatings, and joining methods relevant to combustion
Experience with root-cause analysis of hardware failures
Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks)
Flexibility to work in fast-paced environment
Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality in all work
PERKS & BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
Flexible work environment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Apply for this Job
Powered by
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Engineering
151 days ago
Senior Propulsion Test Engineer
Astro Mechanica · San Francisco, California, United States
Senior Propulsion Test Engineer
Location
San Francisco
Employment Type
Full time
Department
Testing
Compensation
$150K – $225K
Overview
Application
ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE:
Astro Mechanica is seeking a Senior Test Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is someone who is capable of designing, fabricating, operating, and improving on complex mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems for conducting rigorous testing of our innovative jet engine and subsystems. Your work at Astro Mechanica will keep test operations running smoothly, while constantly expanding and improving test capabilities.
In this role, your mission will be to create and operate test infrastructure for hardware research and development. You will have firsthand responsibility that every new design is rigorously tested to ensure quality and performance metrics are met prior to aircraft integration before leaving the ground. You embody the test-like-you-fly philosophy.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Architect test stand design and documentation (engineering drawings, P&ID, electrical schematics, test procedures) for testing components to integrated systems
Maintain test facility operations and maintenance, troubleshoot problems, site cleanliness
Implement robust data and video recording infrastructure
Analyze data for equipment activation, calibration, and operation
Diagnose stand problems efficiently and perform corrective actions
Continually improve facility capabilities to increase test throughput and reliability
Harness assembly (crimping/soldering terminals, cable lacing, troubleshooting)
Operate manual machine shop equipment (drills, cutting tools, mills, lathes)
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
5+ years hands-on experience with fluidic and mechanical systems, test operations
Experience with hazardous environments (flammables, high voltage, pressurized systems) and safety mitigations
Knowledge of fluid systems hardware and instrumentation (pressure, temperature, load cells, relays, solenoids, pneumatics)
Familiarity with data acquisition and control systems, PLC hardware, computer networking, and software interfaces
Proficiency with PLC and data processing software (Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW)
Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks)
Flexibility to work in fast-paced environment
Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality in all work
PERKS & BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
Flexible work environment
Company-funded perks, including weekly team lunches and Astro Mechanica swag
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Apply for this Job
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Listed by Astro Mechanica for a position based in the United States. Employers on this board attest they are hiring domestically.
Engineering
170 days ago
Senior GNC Engineer
Astro Mechanica · San Francisco, California, United States
Senior GNC Engineer
Location
San Francisco
Employment Type
Full time
Department
Software
Compensation
$170K – $215K
Overview
Application
ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE:
You’re a GNC engineer who wants real ownership over the guidance and control systems of a clean-sheet autonomous aircraft. You’re comfortable working from first principles, collaborating tightly with propulsion, structures, and avionics, and making practical tradeoffs to get hardware flying. You care deeply about how systems behave in the real world—not just in simulation—and you’re motivated by building control architectures that are robust, testable, and ready for flight.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Develop and implement guidance, navigation, and control systems for our products
Engage in multi-disciplinary aircraft trades and help define the overall system architecture
Develop 6-DOF dynamics simulation models used for analysis and validation
Develop tooling to automate control design, monte carlos, and simulation validation
Work closely with peers across engineering disciplines to define the control schemes and mechanisms for our products
Support flight and ground test operations
Conduct post flight/test reviews and correlate performance with analysis for continuous improvement on predictions
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
Master’s degree or PhD in robotics, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or related discipline
5+ years of professional experience in GNC development for an aerospace or autonomous vehicle program
Experience with dynamics, modeling, and simulation
Experience with software development best practices
Experience in algorithm design for autonomous vehicles
Experience in fly-by-wire control design for aircraft
Experience with Rust, C++, Python, or other relevant software languages.
Experience and/or an interest in mentoring junior engineers on GNC work and concepts
Experience communicating to teams of different disciplines about implications of GNC on their work and vice versa
Interest and drive to work on all aspects of GNC stack
Ambition to work in a fast-paced environment
PERKS & BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
Flexible work environment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Apply for this Job
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Engineering
170 days ago
Senior Turbomachinery Engineer
Astro Mechanica · San Francisco, California, United States
Senior Turbomachinery Engineer
Location
San Francisco
Employment Type
Full time
Department
Propulsion
Compensation
$150K – $225K
Overview
Application
ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies—which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system—with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE:
Astro Mechanica is looking for a Senior Rotordynamics Engineer with the knowledge and skill to refine the development of our terrestrial and aviation turbomachinery through your understanding of the detailed physical processes that happen within them. Your experience may be rooted in ground-power, aviation, or space-based applications. You understand the physical behavior of rotating systems as deeply on paper as you do at the test stand, and you’ve built the analytical models to prove it.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Lead rotordynamic analysis of turbomachinery systems, including critical speed prediction, stability margins, imbalance response, torsional analysis, modal analysis, and Campbell diagram development
Bearing selection, preload definition, stiffness and damping trade studies, thermal management and lubrication system
Define and execute test campaigns instrumented specifically for rotordynamic validation
Develop and iterate computational models (StarCCM+, AxSTREAM) with rotordynamic constraints in mind
Utilize propulsion cycle models (GasTurb, NPSS) to assess how compressor maps and mechanical behavior interact under dynamic loading conditions
Define GD&T for rotating assemblies through tolerance analysis, considering the effects on rotor balance, seal clearances, and dynamic behavior
Partner with manufacturing to ensure production of high-precision rotating components with balance grades, runout tolerances, and assembly sequence in mind
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
5+ years in turbomachinery design with demonstrated rotordynamic analysis and mechanical packaging ownership on real hardware
Hands-on experience with rotordynamic modelling tools (DyRoBes or equivalent)
Experience with blade and compressor geometry development using CFD, streamline curvature, and 1D meanline methods (StarCCM+, AxStream)
Experience with test instrumentation and data reduction specifically for mechanical validation (vibration, whirl, and rotor response)
Experience with propulsion cycle tools (GasTurb, NPSS) and how compressor mechanical behavior couples to cycle performance
Proficient in CAD for rotating assemblies (Siemens NX) and multiphysics analysis
Experience with scripting for analysis automation and post-processing (Python, MATLAB)
Effective communicator capable of leading cross-functional design reviews and contributing to system architecture discussions
PERKS & BENEFITS:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
Flexible work environment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Apply for this Job
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Listed by Astro Mechanica for a position based in the United States. Employers on this board attest they are hiring domestically.
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