Mechanical Liaison Engineer, Optical Inter-Satellite Link

New Yesterday

Project Kuiper is an initiative to launch a constellation of Low Earth Orbit satellites that will provide low-latency, high-speed broadband connectivity to unserved and underserved communities around the world.
As a Mechanical Liaison Engineer on the OISL team, you will support mechanical integration, structural analysis, and problem resolution for high-reliability optical communication hardware. You’ll play a key role in ensuring that design intent, manufacturing feasibility, and mechanical robustness align across the entire hardware lifecycle.
Key job responsibilities * Applies knowledge of OISL mechanical and opto-mechanical design principles to assess and resolve structural and integration issues across the product lifecycle. * Analyzes, conducts root cause analysis, and develops dispositions for mechanical non-conformances related to fixturing, bonded joints, fasteners, and assemblies. * Investigates technical and operational issues that require mechanical insight and develops rework or redesign recommendations. * Identifies and documents structural deviations and manufacturing anomalies; communicates risk and resolution strategies. * Dispositions non-conformance events throughout the lifecycle: design, machining, assembly, alignment, testing, launch integration, and ground support. * Develops rework procedures, stress justifications, DFM recommendations, and custom tooling or fixturing to support build. * Works with quality, manufacturing, mechanical engineering and structural engineer teams to drive resolution of complex integration issues. * Interfaces with suppliers, GSE designers, and systems teams to ensure structural and mechanical robustness in both tooling and flight assemblies.
Export Control Requirement: Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
A day in the life Each day begins by reviewing test data, addressing non-conformances, and aligning with quality, integration, and design teams. You’ll investigate root causes—whether optical, electrical, or mechanical—then propose and implement solutions to keep hardware on track. Hands-on work may include troubleshooting hardware, authoring rework instructions, or validating process improvements on the floor. You balance speed and rigor, ensuring fixes are well-documented and maintain design intent. Your efforts directly support the delivery of reliable, space-ready optical inter-satellite link systems. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- BS in Mechanical Engineering or related field. - 5+ years of experience in mechanical design, integration, or test of aerospace or high-precision systems. - Experience with CAD tools (NX preferred), GD&T, and tolerance analysis. - Experience with mechanical hardware prototyping and testing. - Experience with bonded joint design, optical mounts, and structural analysis methods. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with Ansys or similar FEA tools for structural margin analysis. - Knowledge of contamination control and integration practices for optical/mechanical systems. - Background in spacecraft or space-qualified mechanical systems.
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Location:
Redmond