Be more than just an employee number! Join Terran Orbital, a leader in innovation, manufacturing, and operations in the satellite industry. We are a pioneer in the miniaturization of space technologies and the delivery of responsive space solutions. We are a unique, fast-growing, and trusted team focused on quickly and economically designing, building, launching, and operating state-of-the-art satellites for advanced mission constellations.

Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Staff Mechanical Engineer to join our growing team. Reporting to the Integrated Product Team Lead – Reaction Wheels the Staff Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for the design and development, analysis, prototype and qualification Reaction Wheel components and modules capable of withstanding launch vehicle and space environments. Associated design efforts will include mass optimization, vibration attenuation, tuned thermal properties, and passive or active thermal control accommodations, manufacturability, and assembly. The Staff Mechanical Engineer works closely with structural, thermal, electrical, system and manufacturing disciplines to meet design, manufacturing, and operational requirements.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and lead the design, development, optimization, and implementation of a portfolio of components and sub-system modules ranging in complexity.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team including electrical, thermal, and structural engineers to integrate reaction wheel assemblies into various spacecraft platforms.
• Reduce risk through identification of constraining design elements providing mitigative recommendations for all development stages from design through final integration.
• Utilize the full spectrum of design, analysis, test, and manufacturing best practices to create efficient component and Spacecraft modules.
• Use established analytical methodologies and Computer Aided Design to ensure mechanical and structural designs will meet or exceed internal and external customer requirements.
• Review design analyses, models, drawings, and associated component and module design documentation for workmanship and accuracy
• Generate and maintain detailed component and assembly drawings associated documentation including specifications, work instructions and operating procedures.
• Leverage first principles as well as rotor-dynamic modal and harmonic and unbalance analysis to evaluate overall module performance and operating trends under various operating conditions.
• Perform module assembly tolerance stack ups, bearing stress & life analysis.
• Lead design reviews and provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers on Industry Best Practices and direction to project teams on module designs.
• Develop test plans and procedures for validation and qualification testing of reaction wheel assemblies, including vibration, thermal, and endurance testing.
• Stay current with advancements in rotor-dynamics, mechanical engineering, and satellite technology to incorporate innovative solutions into reaction wheel designs.
• Develop and provide design timelines and cost estimates for new programs.
• This includes test plans through development, qualification, characterization, and acceptance testing, including but not limited to environmental, vibration, shock, acceleration, life, and endurance test.
• Perform other duties as assigned.