Lead Mechanical Engineer
Who we are:
EOI Space is developing and deploying a network of satellites in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) to provide ultra-high-resolution Earth imagery. We aim to deliver timely and actionable data for commercial and defense applications.
We are on our way to achieving many industry firsts. This demands an ambitious team that revels in leaning into challenges, getting hands on, and working together. Does this sound like you? EOI Space is looking for a Lead Mechanical Engineer to own and guide the mechanical design, structural integrity, and thermal performance of our spacecraft. This is a high-impact, hands-on technical leadership role focused on delivering flight hardware — fast, reliably, and cost-effectively. You will work across all spacecraft lifecycle phases, from architecture and trade studies to manufacturing, testing, and launch.
What you will do:
You will own and guide the mechanical design, structural integrity, and thermal performance of our spacecraft, working across the full development lifecycle. You’ll guide and lead a team of mechanical engineers and work closely with other engineering disciplines and company leadership to ensure that technical milestones are met and that the satellite is ultimately delivered in an efficient manner. This is a hands-on role in a lean and collaborative environment that includes direct people management. Your expertise will contribute to the success of our mission to deliver high-quality Earth imagery that benefits society.
Responsibilities:
Lead the mechanical design of spacecraft structures and mechanisms, including chassis, deployables, payload interfaces, and harness routing
Drive and perform structural analyses, including static, dynamic, modal, and vibration environments (random, sine, shock)
Oversee and contribute to thermal design and analysis, including thermal modeling, heater and insulation design, and thermal control surfaces
Select materials and manufacturing processes appropriate for spaceflight, including composites, machined components, and sheet metal
Collaborate with systems, electrical, software, and integration teams to ensure mechanical interfaces and constraints are understood and met
Own the mechanical CAD models and drawings using SolidWorks
Lead design reviews and trade studies to ensure design robustness and mission alignment
Support environmental test planning and execution
Mentor junior engineers and grow the mechanical engineering function at the company.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or equivalent)
8+ years of experience in spacecraft mechanical engineering, including multiple satellite development lifecycles
Proficient in CAD design, FEA (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN), and thermal modeling tools (e.g., Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT)
Demonstrated experience with flight hardware development, mechanical integration, and environmental testing
Strong understanding of launch environments, mechanical tolerancing, and space-rated materials. Previous experience launching spacecraft on SpaceX Transporter missions is preferred
Excellent problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
Ability to operate in a fast-paced startup environment, balancing hands-on work with strategic planning
Compensation:
The salary range for this role is $170,000-$225,000 per year, depending on previous experience. Pay ranges are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education and experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.
Work Location:
This role can be in either Louisville, CO or in Seattle, WA. Satellite integration for the initial vehicles is happening in EOI’s Colorado facility with a planned transition to Seattle. For candidates that are in Seattle, regular travel is required to be on-site at the Louisville, CO facility.