Lead design, analysis, and development of flight-ready spacecraft structures and deployable systems through concept, qualification, and production. Own hardware lifecycle, produce CAD/drawings, perform FEA and hand calculations, plan and run test campaigns, support cleanroom integration, mentor engineers, manage DFM/DFA, lead program reviews, mitigate technical risks, and contribute to proposals and technology roadmap.
About Opterus
Opterus Research & Development is an innovative aerospace company based in Loveland, Colorado, specializing in deployable space systems and high-strain composite structures. We combine cutting-edge composite materials, origami-inspired architectures, and elegant engineering to deliver lightweight, high-performance structural solutions for commercial, defense, and scientific missions.
About the Position
Opterus is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to serve as a technical leader for the design and development of flight-ready deployable spacecraft systems. This role requires deep expertise in spaceflight hardware and a track record of leading complex programs from concept through flight qualification and production. In this role, you will define technical direction, make architecture-level decisions, and lead multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-reliability space systems. This role combines hands-on engineering with strategic technical leadership and significant influence across programs and customers.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design, analysis, and development of spacecraft structures and deployable systems from concept through flight qualification and production
- Own hardware development throughout the full lifecycle, including requirements definition, design trades, prototyping, testing, and flight validation
- Design and release high-quality CAD models, drawings, and build documentation (SolidWorks)
- Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance across programs
- Perform and/or guide mechanical and structural analysis, including hand calculations and FEA, to ensure performance
- Plan, execute, and oversee test campaigns, including qualification and acceptance testing
- Support cleanroom assembly, integration, and troubleshooting of flight hardware
- Drive design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) in collaboration with production teams
- Lead major program reviews and represent Opterus in customer-facing technical discussions (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, etc.)
- Identify technical risks and lead mitigation strategies
- Contribute to continuous improvement of engineering processes and standards
- Support proposal efforts, including technical volumes, concept development, and cost/schedule inputs
- Contribute to long-term technology roadmap and innovation strategy
Qualifications
- BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline (MS or PhD preferred)
- 8+ years of experience designing and delivering spaceflight hardware
- Demonstrated success leading complex hardware systems through full lifecycle: concept, design, analysis, qualification, and production
- Deep experience with spacecraft mechanisms, structures, deployable systems, or composite structures strongly preferred
- Proven ability to lead technical teams and influence cross-functional stakeholders
- Strong expertise in GD&T, and engineering fundamentals
- Advanced proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks preferred)
- Familiarity with FEA tools and correlating test data
- Strong communication skills with extensive experience in high-level technical reviews and customer engagement
- Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-ownership environment
- US citizen or permanent resident
Compensation and Benefits
- Salary range of $130,000 - $165,000, based on experience and qualifications
- Flexible and hybrid work schedules: 9/80 or 10/80 schedules, with two or more days in the office per week
- Medical, Dental, Vision, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, Life and AD&D insurances
- Opterus pays 100% of employees’ premiums and 70% of dependents’ premiums
- 401K matching up to 4%
- 9 paid holidays
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