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Jpl Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Performing as a Design Engineer for JPL on a spacecraft, instrument or robotic project. * Creating complex CAD models, assemblies and engineering drawings. * Working with world class engineers and ...

Mechanical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do jpl mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 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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What states have the most Jpl Mechanical Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Jpl Mechanical Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Jpl Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% 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.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$72 - $109/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Title: Senior Mechanical Engineer

Location: Pasadena, CA

Type: Contract 6+ months

Pay Rate: $72.00 - $109.95 hourly DOE

Onsite



Summary: This is an opportunity to be a Mechanical Design Engineer in the Engineering Design group, which engages in the engineering and design of advanced spacecraft, instruments and robotic mechanisms for exploration of the solar system.


Some Challenges You’ll Tackle:

  • Performing as a Design Engineer for JPL on a spacecraft, instrument or robotic project.
  • Creating complex CAD models, assemblies and engineering drawings.
  • Working with world class engineers and participating on teams in a highly collaborative environment.
  • Developing and running configuration trades on the mechanical system of a spacecraft project.
  • Interfacing with space science experts, analysts, manufacturing engineers, and project staff.
  • Performing conceptual spacecraft design for feasibility and cost estimates of future missions.



Required Skills:

Experience and knowledge in the following areas:

  • Mechanical design of spacecraft primary and secondary structures, mechanisms and instruments.
  • Engineering CAD (Computer-Aided Design) tools such as Siemens NX (preferred), CATIA or Creo.
  • Creating engineering drawings using the ASME Y14.100-2017 standard.
  • Creating detail drawings, assembly drawings, interface drawings and source control drawings.
  • Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) using ASME Y14.5-2018.
  • Application of advanced principles, theories, concepts, and techniques in solving mechanical engineering problems.
  • Adept at performing trade studies and developing conceptual configurations.
  • Aerospace fabrication processes
  • Aerospace material selection
  • PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) tools such as Teamcenter (preferred), Enovia or Windchill.

Company Description

A world-renowned aerospace research organization where your work contributes to groundbreaking space exploration, scientific discovery, and technologies that shape the future.