Qualifications
Key ResponsibilitiesLead the design and optimization of mechanical and optomechanical systems, including telescope tubes, mounts, enclosures, and optical benches. Manage, mentor, and develop a team of mechanical engineers; assign tasks, review outputs, and encourage professional growth. Define system architecture, design standards, and verification strategies; take ownership of critical interfaces and requirements. Create and review comprehensive 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs); enforce Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and quality standards. Conduct STOP analyses and system-level verification to guarantee structural, thermal, and optical performance across diverse operating environments. Oversee Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and testing plans for stress, thermal, and vibration conditions; analyze results and implement design modifications. Lead design reviews (Preliminary Design Review, Critical Design Review) and communicate technical rationale to stakeholders. Collaborate with optics, electrical, manufacturing, and testing teams to ensure cohesive integration and manufacturability. Support fabrication, quality control, assembly, system validation, and supplier development.
About the job
Observable Space is pioneering advancements in space exploration through our innovative range of vertically integrated hardware and software solutions. We empower organizations to achieve continuous, real-time observations of space, thanks to our heritage from the merger of PlaneWave Instruments, a leader in advanced telescope design and manufacturing, and OurSky, founded by a former SpaceX VP of software engineering. Our diverse product lineup caters to various sectors, including commercial, scientific, educational, and governmental, as well as astronomy enthusiasts exploring the cosmos.
Our organization is supported by esteemed institutional investors, including Upfront Ventures, Oceans Ventures, Venrex, Marlinspike Partners, and Embedded Ventures.
We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to spearhead our mechanical and optomechanical design initiatives while managing a dedicated team of engineers. Your role will encompass driving system architecture, making significant technical decisions, ensuring cross-disciplinary integration (optics, electrical, software), and overseeing the timely delivery of observatory-grade hardware from concept through production and deployment.
About Observable Space
Observable Space is at the forefront of space technology, providing innovative hardware and software solutions to enable continuous observation of space. Our products cater to a wide array of industries and enthusiasts alike, ensuring that we remain a pivotal player in the evolution of space exploration.
