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Mechanical Design Engineering Manager

Stratolaunch · Mojave, CA · Posted Jul 9, 2026

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Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

Stratolaunch is seeking a high-impact, team-oriented leader to manage the Mechanical Design Section. In this role, you will report directly to the Engineering Department Manager at Stratolaunch, working as a trusted team member along with all other Section Managers, as we grow the Engineering team and its capabilities to support the business. You will manage and develop the engineering talent responsible for form, fit and function of ground and flight mechanical systems at Stratolaunch. An ideal candidate will have demonstrated leadership capability, relevant technical expertise, experience managing technical teams and a passion for people.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Support direct reports and programs through technical guidance and peer review in area(s) of expertise

Collaborate with senior technical leaders to establish and enforce technical best practices and standards

Support Department Manager with employee development and retention initiatives

Partner with Department Manager, Human Resources, and Talent Acquisition across the hiring workflow to identify qualified candidates, establish strong interview teams, and hire engineering talent in alignment with strategic program goals

Lead performance management and development efforts for direct reports in partnership with the Department Manager and Human Resources

Support direct reports in complying with applicable policies and procedures (e.g. timekeeping, employee handbook, etc.)

Partner with programs and Department Manager to meet tactical staffing needs and resolve resource conflicts

Support Department Manager in developing and executing strategic staffing initiatives

Support proposal efforts as required

NOTE: The Section Manager role is not fully indirect. Employees in this role must be able to balance overhead management effort with tasking that is chargeable to programs or other support functions. (e.g. Bid Proposal, or IR D)

QUALIFICATIONS SKILLS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Qualifications:

Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills

Demonstrated success as an individual technical contributor and/or technical team leader

Experience recruiting and hiring technical employees

Demonstrated success applying analytical and critical thinking skills to solve multi-disciplinary, open-ended problems

Ability to work independently in a dynamic environment to achieve business goals

Technical expertise in at least one engineering domain of relevance to the Section

US Citizen with the ability to obtain a DOD security clearance

Required Computer Skills:

MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working in matrixed organizations and staffing technical personnel across multiple programs

Experience leading and managing small-to-medium sized technical teams (10+) in resource constrained environments (e.g. aerospace development programs)

Active DOD security clearance

EDUCATION EXPERIENCE

Manager ($157K-$206K): Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree (preferred) in related discipline from an accredited institution and 10+ years relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience

Sr. Manager ($181K-$237K): Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree (preferred) in related discipline from an accredited institution and 15+ years relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable

Work location is dependent on multiple factors, including the business needs of the specific role and the geographic distribution of the employees to be manage

Travel, as needed, to support the department. Travel estimated to be 10%

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Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.

Benefits and our location(s) :

9/80 schedule

Healthcare ( medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs )

Paid Maternity and Parental Leave

50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500

Tuition reimbursement

This position may …

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