Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer

The Space Dynamics (SDL) Civil and Commercial Space (CVS) division is seeking an Entry-level Mechanical Engineer to assist with NASA’s NEO Surveyor program integration and test activities under the direction of Senior Technical Engineering Staff. The successful candidate will be able to begin full-time work in January 2025 and will complete at least a BS in an applicable technical field no later than May 2025.  

Key Responsibilities:

• Works with cross functional teams to plan and execute hardware assembly, including generating assembly planning, kitting hardware for the build, supporting assembly activities, and documenting the build in accordance with SDL’s quality management system
• Performs laboratory prototyping, assembly, and testing
• Performs bolted-joint analysis
• Performs basic thermal and structural analyses
• Performs mechanical Design
• Performs detailed tolerance analysis
• Communicates effectively through written reports and presentations

Required Qualifications:

• A BS in applicable technical field (e.g. mechanical engineering)
• Proficient in the use of computer-aided design tools (Solid Edge preferred)
• Understanding of structural and thermal engineering first principles
• Understanding of industry specifications, fabrication techniques, and processes
• Attention to ISO Quality Assurance standards and other relevant documentation standards
• Experience writing technical plans and procedures
• Track record of successfully working with and collaborating with teams of engineers
• Ability to communicate clearly with personnel of varying technical and professional backgrounds including building presentation slides
• Ability to generate, plan, schedule, and coordinate fabrication of materials, parts, and assemblies through the fabrication cycle according to due dates to meet contractual requirements and program goals
• Must have or be able to obtain a DoD security clearance
• Must be a US citizen
• Must be able to travel on a regular basis and work off-site for extended periods of time

Preferred Qualifications:

• MS in applicable technical field (e.g. mechanical engineering)
• Experience designing for space environment
• Familiarity with mechanical design of optical instruments thermal vacuum cryogenic tests
• Demonstrated proficiency with GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and providing mechanical tolerance analysis
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment with precision optical elements and instruments
• Proficient in the use of computer-aided analysis tools (FEMAP for pre- and post-processing of finite element models; knowledge of NASTRAN for structural analysis)
• Experience in thermal and structural/dynamics analysis

SDL supports a variety of missions, including NASA's vision to reveal the unknown for the benefit of humankind and the Department of Defense's aim to protect our nation on the ground, in the air, and in space. Our sensors, satellites, software systems, and science and engineering play an essential role in some important missions you've heard of, and others that you haven't. Join our team in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

For questions or assistance with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.

EOE including Disability and Vet