Part-Time Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer

Job ID: 8733
Date Posted: July 16, 2026

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a Part-Time Mechanical Engineer to design, analyze, manufacture, assemble, and test flight hardware and ground support equipment in our Civil & Commercial Space Division.

This position is expected to last from August 2026 and continue through to February 2027. The selected candidate will be expected to work approximately 30 hours per week. This is a non-benefited position. While this is a temporary position, there is potential for continued employment or transition to a full-time role.

The Civil & Commercial Space Division is at the forefront of scientific research and space exploration. We equip major Government and commercial missions with calibrated state-of-the-art sensors and satellites. We also provide world-class AI&T technologies and mission management. Our projects include challenges across planetary science, Earth observation, heliophysics, and astrophysics. Be part of a team that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in space and contributes to monumental scientific discoveries.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborates with cross-functional teams and uses CAD software to produce 3D models of flight hardware and ground support equipment
• Produces part fabrication and assembly drawings 
• Plans and executes hardware assembly, including generating assembly plans, kitting hardware, supporting assembly activities, and documenting builds in accordance with SDL’s quality management system 
• Performs laboratory prototyping, assembling, and testing
• Performs bolted-joint analysis
• Performs basic thermal and structural analyses
• Performs detailed tolerance analysis
• Communicates effectively through written reports and presentations

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in applicable technical field (e.g., mechanical engineering)
• 0-5 years of post-graduation engineering experience
• Strong proficiency in CAD design and drafting
• Proficiency with GD&T in accordance with ASME Y14.5
• Understanding of structural and thermal engineering principles
• Understanding of industry specifications, fabrication techniques, and processes
• Experience writing technical plans and procedures
• Ability to communicate clearly with personnel of varying technical and professional backgrounds, including the preparation of presentation materials
• Ability to generate, plan, schedule, and coordinate fabrication of materials, parts, and assemblies throughout the fabrication cycle to meet due dates, contractual requirements, and program goals
• Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency with NX software
• Experience with product lifecycle management software (e.g., Teamcenter or SolidWorks PDM)
• Experience designing for space environment
• Experience with mechanisms and kinematics
• Experience with composite materials
• Experience designing optical systems

SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.