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Python Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Muon Space

Principal Mechanical Engineer

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$222K - $250K/yr

About the role Muon seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our Mechanical Engineering team ... Software skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar * Experience with reaction wheels, torque rods, star ...

Muon Space

Principal Mechanical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$222K - $250K/yr

About the role Muon seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our Mechanical Engineering team ... Software skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar * Experience with reaction wheels, torque rods, star ...

ALSO

Staff Mechanical Engineer, Structures

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

ALSO is looking for an exceptional mechanical engineer that will be responsible for drivetrain ... Experience with Matlab and/or Python. * Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T ...

Cisco

Mechanical Engineering Technical Leader

San Jose, CA · On-site +1

$168K - $241K/yr

Meet the Team We are seeking a highly experienced and driven ASIC Mechanical Engineer to join the ... Develop and scale simulation workflows and automation using Python, Fortran, or similar tools to ...

Cisco

Mechanical Engineering Technical Leader

San Jose, CA · On-site +1

$168K - $241K/yr

Meet the Team We are seeking a highly experienced and driven ASIC Mechanical Engineer to join the ... Develop and scale simulation workflows and automation using Python, Fortran, or similar tools to ...

Cisco

Package Mechanical Design Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site +1

$165K - $241K/yr

We are seeking a Package Mechanical Design Engineer to join the Cisco ASIC Group. In this role, you ... Develop and automate simulation workflows using Python, Fortran, or similar tools to improve ...

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All JobsPython Mechanical Engineer JobsPython Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Python Mechanical Engineer information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$26.6K

$161.6K

$233.8K

How much do python mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for python mechanical engineer in Santa Cruz, CA is $161,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,600.00 and $189,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Python Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectPython Mechanical EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required SkillsPython programming, mechanical engineering fundamentalsMechanical design, CAD software, engineering principles
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, engineering labsDesign offices, manufacturing facilities
CertificationsOptional Python or software certifications, engineering licensesProfessional Engineer (PE), CAD certifications
Industry UsageAutomation, robotics, simulationProduct design, machinery, structural components

The main difference between a Python Mechanical Engineer and a Mechanical Design Engineer lies in their focus areas. Python Mechanical Engineers combine programming skills with mechanical engineering knowledge to develop automation and simulation tools, while Mechanical Design Engineers focus on creating physical product designs using CAD software. Both roles are essential in engineering projects but serve different functions within the industry.

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

To thrive as a Python Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid foundation in mechanical engineering principles, strong programming skills in Python, and typically a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation and modeling tools like ANSYS or SolidWorks, as well as experience with Python libraries such as NumPy and pandas, is highly beneficial. Problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and adaptability set candidates apart in this role. These skills are essential for efficiently designing, analyzing, and automating engineering processes, leading to innovative and optimized mechanical solutions.

How do Python Mechanical Engineers typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during product development?

Python Mechanical Engineers often work closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and product managers throughout the product development cycle. Their role involves integrating Python-based automation and simulation tools with mechanical design processes, which requires clear communication and coordination to ensure compatibility and efficiency. Regular meetings, collaborative project management platforms, and shared documentation are commonly used to align goals and resolve technical challenges. This cross-disciplinary teamwork not only enhances product quality but also provides valuable opportunities for professional growth and learning.

What does a Python Mechanical Engineer do?

A Python Mechanical Engineer is a professional who combines mechanical engineering expertise with proficiency in the Python programming language. They often use Python to automate simulations, analyze engineering data, create custom computational tools, and develop scripts for design optimization. Their work can involve tasks such as automating CAD processes, running finite element analysis, or integrating hardware and software systems. This combination of skills is increasingly valuable in industries that emphasize digital engineering and automation.
What job categories do people searching Python Mechanical Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Python Mechanical Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:
What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Python Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Python Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Python Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Python Mechanical Engineer job openings in Santa Cruz, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $161,620 per year, or $77.7 per hour.
Principal Mechanical Engineer

Principal Mechanical Engineer

Muon Space

San Jose, CA • Hybrid

$222K - $250K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

About the role

Muon seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our Mechanical Engineering team, reporting to the Director of Mechanical Engineering.  This role will be deeply technical with a focus on solving the most demanding design, analysis, test, reliability, and manufacturing challenges across multiple spacecraft platforms.  This role will also have the opportunity to frequently be hands-on with both prototype and production hardware.

You will serve as a technical leader, mentor, and advisor to others on the mechanical team, leveraging previous experience in designing & building spacecraft to push boundaries and design industry leading "new space" satellites for many different commercial and national security applications.  Additionally, you will help define product roadmaps & use a breadth of knowledge to make system level tradeoffs and optimizations.

This hybrid role requires onsite work at our San Jose location three days a week.

Responsibilities
  • Serve as a technical advisor and domain expert, leading the team to optimal designs of spacecraft structures and components
  • Identify opportunities and lead efforts to improve performance, reduce mass, lower cost, improve manufacturability of current spacecraft platforms.
  • Interface directly with Muon's product & business teams to understand market needs define multi-year roadmaps for mechanical subsystems
  • Act as a force multiplier by providing strong, hands-on mentorship to mechanical engineers at all levels, developing their technical skills and systems-level thinking
  • Define mechanical team standards and best practices
  • Contribute broadly to hiring, onboarding, and training of mechanical engineering talent, helping build a culture of technical excellence
Required Qualifications 
  • 12+ years of experience designing, building, and testing flight hardware in the space industry, with multiple programs through on-orbit operations.
  • Strong mentorship experience with demonstrated success in developing junior and mid-level engineers & directly or indirectly leading a team of engineers.
  • Proven track record of optimizing and maturing existing designs and proven approach to clean-sheet development
  • Expert technical knowledge of structural mechanics and analysis, thermal management and modeling, environmental testing (TVAC, vibration)
  • Experience with a variety of manufacturing methods and techniques for space applications, including machining, composites, molding, 3D printing, etc
  • Mastery of standard tools: CAD (SolidWorks preferred), PLM, ERP, FEA, test hardware and equipment
  • Expert-level skills with drawings, GD&T, BOMs, FAIs, tolerance budgets, and mass budgets
  • Experience managing external vendors for part development and manufacturing
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and coordination skills
  • B.S. or higher in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Nice-to-have Skills
  • Experience with deployable structures (solar arrays, antennas, mechanisms)
  • Optomechanical instrument or payload design experience
  • Software skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar
  • Experience with reaction wheels, torque rods, star trackers, or other ADCS components
  • Large assembly management in SolidWorks PDM, Duro, or similar PLM
  • Experience running structural analyses (FEMAP, ANSYS)
  • Track record of establishing engineering standards at an organizational level
Salary

The salary range for this role is $222,000 - $250,000, plus a competitive equity grant and comprehensive benefits package. Final compensation will be determined based on skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location as assessed during the interview process. 

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