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Jpl Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Observable Space

Mechanical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US ... We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer ...

Sierra Lobo, Inc.

Sr. Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

Responsibilities Our Pasadena office is engaged in supporting JPL and commercial aerospace ... We are looking for an opto-mechanical engineer to join our growing team with the following ...

Sierra Lobo, Inc.

Sr. Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

Our Pasadena office is engaged in supporting JPL and commercial aerospace customers. Our team ... We are looking for an opto-mechanical engineer to join our growing team with the following ...

Sierra Lobo

Sr. Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Responsibilities Our Pasadena office is engaged in supporting JPL and commercial aerospace ... We are looking for an opto-mechanical engineer to join our growing team with the following ...

Sierra Lobo, Inc.

Sr. Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

Responsibilities Our Pasadena office is engaged in supporting JPL and commercial aerospace ... We are looking for an opto-mechanical engineer to join our growing team with the following ...

Observable Space

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Senior Mechanical Engineer Location: Los Angeles, CA About Observable Space At Observable Space, w ... Our systems are trusted by NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, Raytheon, and the US DoD, among others, and ...

Observable

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Senior Mechanical Engineer Location: Los Angeles, CA About Observable Space At Observable Space, w ... Our systems are trusted by NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, Raytheon, and the US DoD, among others, and ...

Observable Space

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US ... We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer ...

JPL

Optical Engineer IV

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$140K - $181K/yr

That's our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers ... mechanical design, analysis and implementation; and alignment, test and calibration of optical ...

JPL

Operations Systems Engineer I

Pasadena, CA · On-site

That's our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers ... Familiarity with spacecraft pointing, coordinate systems, orbital mechanics, or Guidance ...

JPL

Quality Assurance Electrical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Adherence to the JPL Facilities Design Standards and accepted engineering practices. * Coordination with architectural, structural, mechanical, and other building systems. * Constructability, clarity ...

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JPL Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do jpl mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for jpl mechanical engineer in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a JPL mechanical engineer?

A JPL Mechanical Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and oversees the manufacture of mechanical systems and components for spacecraft, instruments, and robotics at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Their work often involves creating innovative solutions for challenging environments, such as space, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure mission success. Mechanical engineers at JPL play a crucial role in building and maintaining the hardware that enables groundbreaking space exploration missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a JPL mechanical engineer?

To thrive as a JPL Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving, and often a bachelor's or higher degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or CATIA), FEA analysis tools, and experience with NASA or aerospace-specific standards are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and creativity are essential to excel in multidisciplinary project environments. These skills and qualities are vital for designing reliable, innovative systems that meet the rigorous demands of space exploration.

What are some common challenges faced by mechanical engineers at JPL, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Mechanical Engineers at JPL often work on complex, multidisciplinary projects that require innovative solutions and precise attention to detail. A common challenge is balancing strict mission requirements with the realities of building hardware that must survive harsh environments, such as those found on Mars or in deep space. Applicants can prepare by gaining experience with systems engineering, collaborating across specialties, and developing a strong foundation in thermal, structural, and materials engineering. Familiarity with rapid prototyping, testing standards, and iterative design processes will also be advantageous.
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JPL Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jpl Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Observable Space

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

About Observable Space
At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.
We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.
Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, visit observable.space.
About the Role
We are seeking a highly-motivated and hands-on Mechanical Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you'll design precision mechanical and optomechanical systems for telescopes and related equipment. You'll work with a multidisciplinary team of optical, electrical, and software engineers to deliver observatory-grade systems for ground-based and potential future space-based deployment.
What You'll Do
  • Design and optimize mechanical and optomechanical components (e.g., telescope tubes, mounts, enclosures, optical supports).
  • Create detailed 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs).
  • Conduct FEA simulations for stress, thermal, and vibrational environments.
  • Collaborate with optics and software teams to ensure mechanical compatibility with imaging, tracking, and sensing subsystems.
  • Support the full product lifecycle, from concept design and prototyping to testing and production.
  • Participate in and contribute to design reviews (PDR, CDR, etc.) and internal documentation.
  • Provide engineering support during fabrication, QC, assembly, and system validation.

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent.
  • Understanding of mechanical design fundamentals.
  • Experience with CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX, or similar).
  • Hands-on experience with fabrication, machining, welding, drilling, and/or mechanical assembly.
  • Effective communicator and collaborator.
  • Demonstrated passion for aerospace or observational technologies.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Understanding of FEA (ANSYS, Nastran, etc.), tolerance analysis, and DFM principles.
  • Grasp of materials, fasteners, coatings, and alignment techniques.
  • Understanding of system engineering workflows, interface control documents, and verification processes.
  • Basic scripting or automation (Python, MATLAB) for design or test workflows.

What We Offer
Competitive Compensation - A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.
Equity Opportunities - Take part in our success with stock options.
Flexible Work Environment - Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)
Unlimited PTO (exempt only) - Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.
Health & Wellness - Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.
Cutting-Edge Tools - Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.
Mission-Driven Culture - Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.
Inclusive Team - We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.
Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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