Mechanical Design Engineer

Benchmark Space Systems, a leader in small satellite propulsion systems and in-space mobility services, is looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our team.

The Mechanical Design Engineer will work with an interdisciplinary group of engineers to develop new propulsion components and systems from concept generation to hardware delivery, as well as work to improve existing system and component designs. The role requires a strong understanding of mechanical design and analysis principles, ability to generate production-ready prints and models, and aptitude for creative, rapid problem-solving.

This is an on-site role at our headquarters in Burlington, Vermont.

About Benchmark:

At Benchmark Space Systems, we’re pioneering the future of in-space mobility. Our propulsion technologies provide satellites the ability to maneuver, avoid collisions, and maximize mission potential—all while contributing to a safer, more sustainable space environment.

Backed by recent funding and a growing slate of new flight contracts for government and commercial customers, we’re building a workplace where bold ideas and passionate people thrive. Engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers at Benchmark tackle some of the toughest challenges in spaceflight, working together to turn cutting-edge concepts into real-world solutions. If you're ready to help shape the next era of spaceflight, there's never been a better time to join Benchmark Space Systems.

Measurements of Success/Primary Job Responsibilities:

At its core, Benchmark is an entrepreneurial, fast paced organization. In this environment, we need all employees to solve problems, not be afraid to ask questions and be able to work with and help colleagues in different departments and positions by digging in and working on other tasks as needed/assigned depending on business needs. With that said, there are primary job responsibilities

• Develop and be accountable for mechanical designs at both the component and system level from early concept through production.
• Work with Electrical and Software Engineers to incorporate control electronics and telemetry into mechanical designs.
• Collaborate with Analysis and Test Engineers to validate designs.
• Coordinate with Fluids Engineers to incorporate necessary components such as valves, regulators, and pressure transducers.
• Work with Production Engineers to support assembly, integration, and test.
• Identify and communicate with vendors and/or internal procurement team to source commercially available components and to manufacture custom designs.
• Contribute to all aspects of the design process including requirements development, design reviews, component sourcing, test plan development, and design revision.
• Work closely with customers, systems engineering, program management, and other disciplines to track mechanical requirements and to support documentation such as master equipment lists, bills of material, end item data packs, mass growth allowance estimates, etc.
• Support customer facing reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.).
• Promote cross-discipline collaboration between mechanical, analysis, electrical, and software engineers.

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineer, Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
• 3+ years of professional experience in a mechanical design engineering role within the aerospace industry.
• U.S. Person Requirement: Due to the nature of the work and access to export-controlled information, applicants must qualify as a U.S. Person under U.S. export control laws. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position now or in the future.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

What you bring to the position, or have the ability to swiftly learn and be successful in:

• Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) and experience generating engineering drawings and models for production.
• Proficiency in basic mechanical analysis, including both hand calculations and use of simulation tools (e.g. Solidworks Simulation, ANSYS).
• Individually motivated and accountable for driving mechanical design while working collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team on system requirements and development.

What makes you stand out:

• 6+ years of professional experience in a mechanical design engineering role.
• Direct experience in spacecraft or spacecraft subsystem design including component layout and design of primary and secondary structures within volumetric and mass constraints.
• Experience in chemical or electric propulsion systems design including selection and sizing of fluidic components, pressure vessel design, familiarity with reading or generating piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and mechanical layout of fluid systems.
• Familiarity with material considerations for compatibility with various propellants including high-test peroxide (HTP) and other green propellants.
• Strong understanding of DFM principles and manufacturing methods for both traditional machining and additive manufacturing.
• Familiarity with GD&T principles and implementation.
• Experience taking complex mechanical designs from concept through production and testing.
• Experience with mechanical design of packaging for electronics and system harness routing.
• Familiarity designing in accordance with aerospace industry standards.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (100% coverage for individuals, 80% for families).
• Vision and dental insurance.
• Company paid life, AD&D and disability insurances.
• Voluntary life insurance.
• Employee assistance program.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Flexible schedule.
• Unlimited vacation.

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions:

While performing duties of this job, the employee is predominately functioning in a sedentary light office position with high frequency of telephone communication, keyboarding, and computer.

Benchmark Space Systems is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive, innovative environment with the best employees. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please contact us at careers @benchmark-space.com