Role Overview
SpaceX is hiring a mid-level Mechanical Engineer (Optical Test). This is a full-time role in Redmond. Part of SpaceX's Qa hiring. The posted range is $100k to $115k. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.
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Job Description
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
- Work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to understand and drive requirements for production and development testing of highly complex spaceflight hardware
- Design fixtures, mechanisms, fluid systems and other types of hardware to support safe, efficient, and reliable testing of satellite systems
- Create detailed documentation for test systems including engineering drawings and schematics
- Utilize hand calculations and tools such as FEA to inform and validate design decisions
- Balance multiple high-priority projects through effective time management and communication
- Demonstrate extreme ownership of all project phases from initial concept to final commissioning and operation
- Work closely with technicians to build, assemble, and operate test systems
- Review data to understand and validate performance of test systems
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, physics or other engineering discipline
- 1+ years of engineering design experience (internships, student projects, extracurricular project experience, and professional experience qualify)
- Experience working in a laboratory or industrial setting requiring hands-on work, attention to detail, and high regard for safety
- Knowledge of common manufacturing processes and hands-on experience machining parts using standard equipment such as mills, lathes, CNC machines
- Experience with optical and opto-mechanical hardware and systems
- Experience with Siemens NX and Teamcenter CAD/PDM systems
- Experience applying GD&T
- Basic understanding of industrial electrical, control, and instrumentation systems
- Experience working effectively across multi-disciplinary teams
- Desire to work in a fast-paced environment
- Basic proficiency with Python or other programming language
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Some travel to our launch sites may be required as needed, up to 10%
- Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg
- Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
Pay range:
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
- To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.
SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for the Mechanical Engineer (Optical Test) position at SpaceX?
Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to SpaceX. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.
Where is the Mechanical Engineer (Optical Test) position at SpaceX located?
This position is based in Redmond. SpaceX has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.
How much does the Mechanical Engineer (Optical Test) role at SpaceX pay?
SpaceX has posted a compensation range of $100k to $115k for this position. Final offers typically vary based on candidate experience, location, and internal salary bands.
When was the Mechanical Engineer (Optical Test) role at SpaceX posted?
This role was posted on April 30, 2026 (53 days ago). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.
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