Observable Space
space
SeniorMechanicalEngineer
Neural analysis suggests this role is
optimal for Senior candidates.
“Senior Mechanical Engineer at Observable Space. Skills: Mechanical design, Optomechanical design, System architecture, FEA, CAD. Design and optimize mechanical and optomechanical systems (telescope tubes, mounts, enclosures, optical benches/supports). Define system architecture, design standards, and verification own key interfaces and requirements”
What You'll Achieve.
On-time delivery of observatory‑grade hardware from concept through production and field deployment
Industry & Context.
Interpret results and drive design changes; Technical trade studies
What They're Looking For.
Must Have
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or relevant professional experience, 5+ years relevant experience with progressive responsibility in aerospace, optics, or precision mechanical systems, Professional-level proficiency with CAD (SolidWorks, NX, or similar) and creating detailed drawingsOMs, Demonstrated knowledge of STOP or cross‑domain system verification, and FEA workflows (ANSYS, Nastran, or similar), knowledge of materials, fasteners, coatings, alignment techniques, and DFM/DFT principles, Track record of delivering complex engineered systems from concept to production
Nice to Have
Experience with telescope systems, astronomical instrumentation, or optomechanics, Thermal design experience for outdoor or space athermal design knowledge, Familiarity with optical mounts, flexures, tolerance analysis, and alignment tooling, Systems engineering experience: ICDs, verification planning, requirements flowdown, Basic scripting/automation (Python, MATLAB) for design or test workflows, Experience with ISO/AS9100 quality systems and supplier management
What You'll Do.
Design and optimize mechanical and optomechanical systems (telescope tubes
optical benches/supports)
Define system architecture
and verification own key interfaces and requirements
Produce and review detailed 3D CAD models
and enforce DFM and quality standards
Support STOP analyses and system‑level verification to ensure structural
and optical performance across operating environments
Lead FEA and test plans for stress
and vibration interpret results and drive design changes
Lead design reviews (PDR
CDR) and present technical rationale to stakeholders
Coordinate with optics
and test teams to ensure integration and manufacturability
and supplier development
and technical trade studies for assigned subsystems
How You'll Work.
Team & Collaboration
Ensure cross‑discipline integration (optics, electrical, software); Coordinate with optics, electrical, manufacturing, and test teams to ensure integration and manufacturability; Support collaboration and team culture
Communication Scope
Present technical rationale to stakeholders
Process & Methodology
Own schedule, Risk management, Technical trade studies
Full Job Description
From telescopes to software architecture, Observable Space provides the foundational elements every organization needs to operate in space. Observable Space is unlocking continuous, real-time observations of space with the industry’s first line of vertically integrated hardware and software products. The company is the result of a merger between PlaneWave Instruments, the leader in advanced telescope design and manufacturing in the US, and OurSky, a company founded by SpaceX’s former VP of software engineering to create a developer platform for space data applications. Observable Space’s full line of products serves all sectors of the space industry including commercial, science, education, and government customers, as well as astronomy enthusiasts discovering the cosmos. Observable Space is backed by top institutional investors–Upfront Ventures, Oceans Ventures, Venrex, Marlinspike Partners, and Embedded Ventures. We’re hiring a Senior Mechanical Engineer to support mechanical and optomechanical design efforts. You will help drive system architecture, make high‑impact technical decisions, ensure cross‑discipline integration (optics, electrical, software), and take responsibility for on‑time delivery of observatory‑grade hardware from concept through production and field deployment. Key Responsibilities - Design and optimize mechanical and optomechanical systems (telescope tubes, mounts, enclosures, optical benches/supports). - Define system architecture, design standards, and verification strategies; own key interfaces and requirements. - Produce and review detailed 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and BOMs; enforce DFM and quality standards. - Support STOP analyses and system‑level verification to ensure structural, thermal, and optical performance across operating environments. - Lead FEA and test plans for stress, thermal, and vibration environments; interpret results and drive design changes. - Lead design reviews (PDR, CDR) and present technical ration
Applying for this Senior Mechanical Engineer role?
Most applicants get filtered before a human reads their resume. See if yours makes the cut.
How to Apply on Ashby
- Ashby is a fast modern ATS — most applications take under 3 minutes.
- The resume parser is strong; verify parsed experience dates and job titles.
- Custom screening questions are often scored algorithmically — answer completely.
- Location field affects geo-based screening; use your actual metro area.
ANONYMOUS · UNFILTERED
What do employees actually say about Observable Space?
Real rants from real employees. Read before you apply.