Mechanical Engineer II – Propulsion Spacecraft Fluid Systems Verified today

About the Role

Xona is seeking a Mechanical Engineer II to design, build, and qualify fluid delivery and pressurized gas systems for satellites in the Pulsar constellation. You will own this subsystem end-to-end, from architecture to component selection through qualification testing and integration with the satellite bus.

You will work closely with structures, electrical, and software engineers to deliver reliable, flight-qualified hardware. This is a hands-on role spanning mechanical design, test, and process development, with opportunities to contribute throughout the development lifecycle from early prototyping through spacecraft integration and into production.

What You'll Do

• Design and simulate fluid delivery systems spanning high pressure to free molecular flow regimes.
• Select, specify, and qualify fluid system components (valves, transducers, filters, regulators, etc.) for spaceflight use.
• Develop and assemble ground testing infrastructure including enclosures and safety-critical containment hardware for high-pressure test operations.
• Specify and implement flow control logic, including valve sequencing, setpoint management, and fault protection.
• Develop and integrate automation software for ground test operations and system control.
• Write work instructions, test procedures, and assembly documentation for flight hardware.
• Ensure compliance with DOT certification standards and applicable regulations for pressurized system transport and operation.
• Own CAD models, drawings, and BOMs for fluid system assemblies.

Required Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 2-5 years of experience designing fluid or gas delivery systems, preferably in aerospace, semiconductor, or related industries.
• Experience with pressurized system design, leak detection, and proof or burst testing.
• Hands-on experience with solenoid valves, flow controllers, and pressure regulation hardware.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (SolidWorks or similar).
• Understanding of flow behavior across pressure regimes, including continuum and free molecular flow.
• Experience designing and executing qualification or acceptance test programs.
• Strong problem-solving ability and attention to detail.
• Ability to work onsite in Burlingame, CA.

Desired Qualifications

• Familiarity with high vacuum systems and vacuum-compatible materials and processes.
• Experience with automation or control software for fluid systems (LabVIEW, Python, or similar).
• Familiarity with tubing standards, fittings (e.g., Swagelok, AN/MS), and tube routing practices.
• Working knowledge of DOT certification and hazardous pressure system regulations.
• Experience writing work instructions or procedures for flight hardware.
• Familiarity with spacecraft integration and mechanical design for space environments.

Requirements

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States (Green Card holder), or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).