Mechanisms Engineer

Piper Companies is seeking a Lead Spacecraft Mechanisms Engineering Technician to join its rapidly expanding Assembly, Integration, and Test (AI&T) organization in Midland, TX.

This is a high-impact, hands-on opportunity to support the production of next-generation satellites that will enable the first global cellular broadband network in space. The role offers leadership responsibility, technical ownership of flight hardware, and the chance to work on cutting-edge spacecraft mechanisms in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities for the Lead Spacecraft Mechanisms Engineering Technician include:

• Support assembly, integration, and test operations for spacecraft mechanisms and mechanical subsystems
• Perform hands-on build and integration of mechanisms sub-assemblies and top-level assemblies
• Integrate mechanisms assemblies onto spacecraft structures and coordinate with other subsystems
• Support developmental, qualification, and acceptance testing of mechanisms and spacecraft hardware
• Perform spacecraft-level inspections and verification activities during integration and test
• Identify hardware anomalies during assembly or testing and escalate issues for investigation
• Provide detailed feedback to engineering teams regarding hardware performance and design improvements
• Lead complex assembly and integration activities in a primarily manual, non-automated environment
• Supervise, mentor, and train junior technicians on assembly techniques, processes, and quality standards
• Support manufacturing and test activities during spacecraft production and verification phases

Qualifications for the Lead Spacecraft Mechanisms Engineering Technician include:

Education:

• Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Aerospace Technology, or a related technical field preferred
• Equivalent hands-on experience, military training, or demonstrated industry experience will be considered

Experience:

• 5-15 years of hands-on experience with high-reliability hardware in aerospace, satellite, or launch vehicle environments
• Proven experience performing mechanical assembly, integration, and test in manual or low-automation settings
• Experience supporting spacecraft or aerospace hardware through development, production, or test cycles

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with space-qualified mechanisms such as deployment systems, actuators, hinges, latches, or release devices
• Experience supporting environmental testing (vibration, shock, thermal vacuum)
• Familiarity with high-rate spacecraft manufacturing or production environments
• Knowledge of RCCA processes and nonconformance documentation
• Experience working in cleanroom environments with contamination control requirements
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, procedures, and technical documentation

Soft Skills:

• Demonstrated leadership capabilities with experience training and mentoring technicians
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills
• Proactive problem-solving mindset
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities

Compensation for the Lead Spacecraft Mechanisms Engineering Technician includes:

• Salary Range: $120,000 annually (depending on experience)
• Equity: Approximately 3,000 RSUs
• Onsite Position: Midland, TX (offering $10,000 for relocation)
• Comprehensive benefits package available

This job opens for applications on 3/26/26. Applications for this position will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

Keywords:

lead mechanisms technician, spacecraft mechanisms, satellite assembly, aerospace technician, AI&T, spacecraft integration, mechanical assembly, launch vehicle hardware, deployment systems, cleanroom manufacturing, aerospace production, spaceflight hardware, satellite technician, mechanisms engineering, AST SpaceMobile, space manufacturing, flight hardware

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