Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (Contractor)

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (Contractor)

Spire Global is a space-to-cloud analytics company that owns and operates the largest multi-purpose constellation of satellites. Its proprietary data and algorithms provide the most advanced maritime, aviation, and weather tracking in the world. In addition to its constellation, Spire’s data infrastructure includes a global ground station network and 24/7 operations that provide real‑time global coverage of every point on Earth.

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will be designing and analyzing the mechanical systems and payloads for our next‑generation nano‑satellites. You will work on a variety of satellite missions, and will be intimately involved in vehicle design, test equipment design, satellite assembly, and mechanical environmental testing.

The role will include design of satellite structures and mechanisms, thermal and structural analysis, working with 3rd‑party manufacturers, and interfacing with electrical and software teams. The ideal candidate will be able to work effectively as part of a fast‑paced multidisciplinary team, have a hands‑on, collaborative approach to problem solving, and ensure that projects are delivered on time with critical attention to detail.

Scope of the role

• Mechanical design of spacecraft components, mechanisms and electro‑mechanical assemblies using SolidWorks
• Preparation of detailed system documentation
• Test fixture and ground support equipment development and deployment
• Analysis of structural, thermal, and thermoelastic load cases
• Peer reviews of mechanical drawings
• Providing production support to the manufacturing team
• Assisting other team members from multiple disciplines achieve their goals

Basic Qualifications / Experience

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent course or work experience
• Precision machined parts design (including material & coating selection)
• Mechanical analysis using hand calculations and FEA
• Excellent CAD design and drafting experience
• Experience modeling and designing cable harnesses
• Design for manufacture and assembly (DFMA) principles

Preferred Qualifications / Experience

• Aerospace experience (desirable, not essential)
• Environmental testing (vibration, thermal, thermal‑vacuum)
• SolidWorks Simulation, Ansys, or equivalent FEA package
• Thermal and thermoelastic analysis of mechanical systems
• Electromagnetic compatibility and EMI shielding
• Electronics theory (communication interfaces, PCB layout principles)
• Basic software skills (C, Python, scripting)

Spire operates a hybrid work model, and this position will require you to work a minimum of three days per week in the office.

Access to US export‑controlled software and/or technology may be required for this role. If needed, Spire will arrange the necessary licenses—this is not something candidates need to have before applying.

About Spire

Spire Global is a space-to-cloud analytics company that owns and operates the largest multi‑purpose constellation of satellites. Its proprietary data and algorithms provide the most advanced maritime, aviation, and weather tracking in the world. In addition to its constellation, Spire’s data infrastructure includes a global ground station network and 24/7 operations that provide real‑time global coverage of every point on Earth.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Spire is global and our success draws upon the diverse viewpoints, skills and experiences of our employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status.

To help maintain a safe and secure workplace for Spire employees, all candidates who receive a conditional offer will be required to complete a background check. This may include criminal history and employment verification.

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