Spacecraft Structures Test Engineer

Responsibilities

• Own structural test strategy and execution across components, subsystems, and fully integrated spacecraft
• Develop and operate fluid, hydraulic, and pressurized systems, including high-pressure and cryogenic environments
• Design and integrate data acquisition and instrumentation (strain gauges, load cells, pressure transducers, thermocouples)
• Write and automate test procedures and scripts (primarily Python) for execution and data analysis
• Lead test operations end-to-end, including setup, execution, and post-test review
• Troubleshoot hardware and drive root cause analysis on structural test failures
• Partner cross-functionally with design, analysis, avionics, and manufacturing to close the loop between test results and design

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or related engineering field
• 3+ years of experience in spacecraft, launch vehicle, or complex structural testing
• Background designing large-scale structural test stands or load application systems
• Strong fundamentals in structural mechanics, including strength, stability, and fatigue
• Experience with structural analysis (hand calcs and/or FEM) and test correlation
• Hands-on experience with instrumentation and lab equipment
• Experience designing, building, or operating structural test systems and hardware
• Experience with test automation and scripting (Python or similar)
• Ability to operate in fast-paced, high-ownership environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with environmental testing (TVAC, vibration, shock, EMI/EMC)
• Familiarity with NX/Teamcenter, Nastran, or ANSYS
• Experience working with high-pressure or cryogenic systems

Benefits

• Equity in Apex
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for employees and dependents
• $100k life insurance
• Comprehensive PTO package
• 401(k) plan with matching
• 8 weeks paid parental leave and childcare reimbursement
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks

About the Company

Apex manufactures satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware designed for manufacturing to provide humankind access to the galaxy.