Senior Mechanical Engineer, Valves & Fluid Systems

Senior Mechanical Engineer, Valves & Fluid SystemsAstra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.The OpportunityAs a Senior Mechanical Engineer on Astra’s Valves & Fluid Systems team, you’ll lead the design, development, and qualification of fluid components critical to launch success. You’ll work on everything from high-pressure valves and actuators to cryogenic plumbing and quick-disconnects—owning designs from early concept through flight.This is a hands-on, high-accountability role that requires deep technical judgment, close collaboration with cross-functional teams, and a willingness to jump in wherever needed. You’ll work closely with technicians, test engineers, and manufacturing to ensure hardware gets built, tested, and delivered on time.How You'll Fulfill Your MissionDesign & AnalysisOwn mechanical design for valves, actuators, and fluid system componentsPerform structural, thermal, and tolerance analyses to validate design robustnessHelp define requirements and contribute to system-level engineering effortsDevelopment & TestingLead hardware development through prototyping, environmental testing, and hot-fire campaignsDrive root cause investigations and implement corrective actionsSystems IntegrationCollaborate with propulsion, test, and structures teams to ensure seamless integrationDeliver complete engineering documentation to support manufacturing and test operationsProvide guidance to junior engineers and share design best practicesContribute to team standards, tooling, and continuous improvement effortsWhy We Value You4+ years in mechanical engineering across aerospace, defense, or similar high-reliability fieldsProven track record in owning hardware from concept through test and productionProficient in CAD (NX, SolidWorks, etc.) and generating detailed drawings with GD&TStrong FEA fundamentals and experience in structural and thermal simulationDeep understanding of manufacturing processes including machining, welding, brazing, and heat treatingHands-on builder who’s comfortable wrenching, debugging, and working closely with techniciansHumble, team-first mindset - you're comfortable with self-direction, but also take feedback well and step up wherever the team needs helpB.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering disciplineDesired MultipliersExperience designing and qualifying high-pressure (6000+ psi) or cryogenic fluid systems (LOX, RP-1, etc.)Background in complex mechanical mechanisms (e.g., Safe & Arm Devices, Arm/Fire Devices, actuators)Ownership of complete Tech Data Packages, compliance plans, and program reviews (PDR/CDR/TRR)Familiarity with ASME, NASA, or MIL standards and how to apply them in hardware designStartup or early-stage company experience, thriving in fast-paced, ambiguous environmentsDemonstrated ability to lead failure investigations and implement corrective actionsTrack record of mentoring engineers and leading multi-disciplinary effortsThe pay range for this role is: $130,000 - $160,000 per yearThe stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Astra, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.San Francisco Applicants:Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.ITAR Requirements: This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17