Mechanisms Engineer

Piper Companies is seeking a Lead Spacecraft Mechanisms Engineering Technician to join its rapidly expanding Assembly, Integration, and Test (AI&T) organization in Midland, TX.

This is a high-impact, hands-on opportunity to support the production of next-generation satellites that will enable the first global cellular broadband network in space. The role offers leadership responsibility, technical ownership of flight hardware, and the chance to work on cutting-edge spacecraft mechanisms in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities for the Lead Spacecraft Mechanisms Engineering Technician include:

• Support assembly, integration, and test operations for spacecraft mechanisms and mechanical subsystems

• Perform hands-on build and integration of mechanisms sub-assemblies and top-level assemblies

• Integrate mechanisms assemblies onto spacecraft structures and coordinate with other subsystems

• Support developmental, qualification, and acceptance testing of mechanisms and spacecraft hardware

• Perform spacecraft-level inspections and verification activities during integration and test

• Identify hardware anomalies during assembly or testing and escalate issues for investigation

• Provide detailed feedback to engineering teams regarding hardware performance and design improvements

• Lead complex assembly and integration activities in a primarily manual, non-automated environment

• Supervise, mentor, and train junior technicians on assembly techniques, processes, and quality standards

• Support manufacturing and test activities during spacecraft production and verification phases

Qualifications for the Lead Spacecraft Mechanisms Engineering Technician include:

Education:

• Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Aerospace Technology, or a related technical field preferred

• Equivalent hands-on experience, military training, or demonstrated industry experience will be considered

Experience:

• 5–15 years of hands-on experience with high-reliability hardware in aerospace, satellite, or launch vehicle environments

• Proven experience performing mechanical assembly, integration, and test in manual or low-automation settings

• Experience supporting spacecraft or aerospace hardware through development, production, or test cycles

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with space-qualified mechanisms such as deployment systems, actuators, hinges, latches, or release devices

• Experience supporting environmental testing (vibration, shock, thermal vacuum)

• Familiarity with high-rate spacecraft manufacturing or production environments

• Knowledge of RCCA processes and nonconformance documentation

• Experience working in cleanroom environments with contamination control requirements

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, procedures, and technical documentation

Soft Skills:

• Demonstrated leadership capabilities with experience training and mentoring technicians

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship

• Excellent collaboration and communication skills

• Proactive problem-solving mindset

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities

Compensation for the Lead Spacecraft Mechanisms Engineering Technician includes:

• Salary Range: $120,000 annually (depending on experience)

• Equity: Approximately 3,000 RSUs

• Onsite Position: Midland, TX (offering $10,000 for relocation)

• Comprehensive benefits package available

This job opens for applications on 3/26/26. Applications for this position will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

Keywords:

lead mechanisms technician, spacecraft mechanisms, satellite assembly, aerospace technician, AI&T, spacecraft integration, mechanical assembly, launch vehicle hardware, deployment systems, cleanroom manufacturing, aerospace production, spaceflight hardware, satellite technician, mechanisms engineering, AST SpaceMobile, space manufacturing, flight hardware

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