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Senior Mechanical Engineer - Valves & Fluid Systems

Motive Companies

Alameda, CA

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JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Aerospace and Defense, Best Practices, Brazing, CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing), Continuous Improvement, Corrective Action, Cross-Functional, Data Management, Debugging Skills, Finite Element Analysis, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, Hardware Design, Hardware Development, High Reliability, Leadership, Licensing, Machining, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Operations, Manufacturing/Industrial Processes, Mechanical Design, Mechanical Engineering, Mentoring, Plumbing, Process Improvement, Propulsion, Prototyping, Root Cause Analysis, SolidWorks, Startup, Support Documentation, Systems Hardware, Technical Leadership, Test Design, Test Readiness Review (TRR), Testing, Thermal Analysis, Time Management, Tolerance Analysis, Welding
LOCATION
Alameda, CA
POSTED
11 days ago
We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join the Valves & Fluid Systems team of a next-generation space launch provider. In this role, you'll lead the design, development, and qualification of fluid system components that are critical to launch success. This includes high-pressure valves, actuators, cryogenic plumbing, and quick-disconnects-owning designs from concept through flight.

This is a high-accountability, hands-on engineering position where you'll collaborate with technicians, test engineers, and manufacturing teams to ensure hardware is designed, tested, and delivered on time. You'll also play a key role in mentoring junior engineers, shaping team standards, and driving continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
  • Own the mechanical design for valves, actuators, and other fluid system hardware
  • Perform structural, thermal, and tolerance analyses to validate designs
  • Lead hardware development from prototyping to environmental and hot-fire testing
  • Drive root cause investigations and corrective actions for test or production issues
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with propulsion, test, and structures teams for seamless integration
  • Deliver complete engineering documentation to support manufacturing and test operations
  • Provide mentorship and guidance to junior engineers while contributing to design best practices
Compensation
  • Base salary range: $130,000 - $160,000 per year (Bay Area market range; excludes bonus and benefits)


Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering field
  • 4+ years of experience in mechanical engineering across aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability industries
  • Proven track record owning hardware from concept through testing and production
  • Proficiency in CAD (NX, SolidWorks, etc.) with strong GD&T fundamentals
  • Strong background in FEA, structural, and thermal simulations
  • Deep understanding of manufacturing processes (machining, welding, brazing, heat treating)
  • Hands-on builder comfortable with assembly, debugging, and technician collaboration
  • Team-first mindset with the ability to self-direct, take feedback, and adapt as needed
Preferred Skills / Multipliers
  • Experience designing and qualifying high-pressure (6000+ psi) or cryogenic systems (LOX, RP-1, etc.)
  • Background in complex mechanical mechanisms (actuators, safe & arm devices, arm/fire devices)
  • Experience managing Tech Data Packages, compliance plans, and program reviews (PDR/CDR/TRR)
  • Familiarity with ASME, NASA, or MIL standards
  • Startup/early-stage company experience in fast-paced environments
  • Track record of leading failure investigations and implementing corrective actions
  • Demonstrated mentorship of engineers and leadership of cross-disciplinary efforts
Other Requirements
  • Must be a U.S. Person under ITAR/EAR (citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee) or eligible for licensing
  • Subject to background checks and, if applicable, government contract clearance
  • San Francisco applicants will be considered consistent with the Fair Chance Ordinance

About the Company

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