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Jpl Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Observable Space

Mechanical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

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

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

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $148K/yr

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 ...

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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

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 ...

JPL

Optical Engineer III

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 ...

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All JobsJpl Mechanical Engineer Jobs

Jpl Mechanical Engineer information

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$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do jpl mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 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.

How much does a Mechanical Engineer at JPL make?

A Mechanical Engineer at JPL typically earns an average salary ranging from $80,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and specific role responsibilities. Salaries may also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, with opportunities for advancement based on performance and tenure.

Is it hard to get a job at JPL?

Securing a mechanical engineering position at JPL is competitive due to high standards for education, experience, and technical skills, including proficiency in CAD software and systems engineering. Candidates often need a strong background in aerospace or related fields, relevant internships, and sometimes security clearances. The hiring process involves multiple interviews and assessments, reflecting the specialized nature of the work environment.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a Mechanical Engineer?

Mechanical engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or specialized skills in fields like aerospace or energy. High salaries are often associated with senior roles, managerial positions, or working in high-cost-of-living areas, and may require additional responsibilities or advanced degrees. Entry-level salaries typically range lower, but experienced professionals with expertise in CAD, FEA, or project management can reach or exceed this income level.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain senior roles in software or data science can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a JPL Mechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

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.
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Jpl Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jpl Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Sierra Lobo, Inc.

Pasadena, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Overview
Sierra Lobo, offers customers a full range of professional and technical capabilities, including Test and Evaluation, Systems Engineering, and Advanced Technologies. We also develop products and processes related to Cryogenic Fluid and Thermal Management Systems, Densified Propellant Management Systems, and Prototype Extreme Pressure and Temperature Systems. Our customers include the Department of Defense (DoD), the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
Responsibilities
Our Pasadena office is engaged in supporting JPL and commercial aerospace customers. Our team specializes in the opto-mechanical design, analysis, test and fabrication of spaceflight imaging instruments. We have been involved in numerous successful hyperspectral imager projects as well as other airborne and spaceflight optical instruments. We are looking for an opto-mechanical engineer to join our growing team with the following qualifications:
Qualifications
  1. BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering or similar. 0-5 years of industry experience.
  2. Experience using the Siemens NX CAD tool.
  3. Experience with mechanical drawing generation using GD&T principles.
  4. Experience performing detailed structural analysis of components and assemblies, including first order hand calculations and finite element analyses.
  5. Broad understanding of mechanical design principles and application. Ability and experience taking designs from requirement definition through drawing generation, fabrication, assembly, and test.
  6. Broad understanding of applicable industry and/or academic practices and standards in opto-mechanical systems including mounting optical elements and optical instrument structural design.
  7. Familiarity with optical design tools such as Zemax or FRED is a plus.
  8. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  9. Ability to work in a customer-focused team environment.
  10. Integration and test experience with spaceflight hardware a plus.

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