Astrolab

Lead Mechanical Engineer, Vehicle Engineering

12536 Chadron Ave, Hawthorne, CA 90250

On-site · Full-time · $157k–$190k (as posted)

First seen by offpeak October 6, 2026

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Astrolab is The Lunar Operations Company. We design and build the systems and hardware the lunar economy will come to depend on — rovers, power, and data networks for sustained operations on the Moon. We are focused on the problems that must be solved before the next chapter of human exploration can scale. The Moon does not forgive untested assumptions. The people who work here know that, and they wouldn't have it any other way.

As a Lead Structures Engineer, you and your team will design, develop, test, and operate planetary rovers and related hardware. You will be responsible for producing high-performance designs for challenging environments, with cradle-to-grave accountability. You will have the opportunity to develop and mentor other engineers while working on novel, complex mechanical systems.

What you'll do:

Work with leadership and design counterparts to define Astrolab best practices for structures design, analysis, and test
Design mechanical and thermal platforms at the architectural level
Build tools and infrastructure to make your team and the company more efficient
Set team priorities and manage progress through various program phases
Develop and train junior mechanical engineers

What you'll bring:

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) field
4+ years of experience in a design role at a space company
Experience with space industry design principles, finite element analysis methods, test design & execution
Experience developing hardware to meet space industry design standards and best practices
Experience leading a team through a design program start-to-finish
Experience mentoring and developing junior engineers, contractors, and interns to build an effective design team

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in a science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) field
Experience with NASA technical standards for design, analysis, and test
Experience with structural dynamics analysis and test methods
Experience with thermal analysis methods and tools

Benefits and Perks

Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
Equity ownership in the company
Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
401(k) plan with company match
Flexible PTO and parental leave
Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks

Reports To

Andrew Welter

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