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Payload Engineer

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 Level II or Sr-level Mechanical or Structural Engineer to lead the design, build, and integration of experimental customer payloads on the Talon-A hypersonic vehicles. This position involves working with a multi-disciplinary engineering team, program management, and customers. While this role is primarily mechanical integration focused, an ideal candidate will also have experience with system integration and avionics packaging.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Work across many teams and subsystems to define interface and integration requirements

Perform the design and analysis, as necessary, of mechanical and avionics packaging of customer payloads

Perform structural and thermal analysis of mechanical components and/or assemblies

Create, organize, and manage 3D CAD sub models and master models for Talon-A payloads

Spec and order hardware, as required, to fabricate your designs

Deconflict hardware interface issues between teams by raising and helping correct issues quickly

Support fabricators and mechanics in building and integrating all components and assemblies onto the vehicle

Report to and support Talon-A Payload Integration Lead

Make suggestions and recommendations for improvements, including changes to workflow.

Support technical customer reviews and ensure contract deliverables are on time and meet or exceed customer requirements

Provide technical support for payload proposals and contract negotiations

Travel, as needed, to support the company

Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity and fulfillment of commitments

QUALIFICATION 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

Proficient with 3D CAD modeling, assembly management, and PDM

Ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to gain support or resolve concerns

Ability to work on their own initiative and prioritize tasking to fit within the business goals

Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities

Excellent written verbal communication

Ability to acquire and maintain a security clearance

Required Skills

Experience with Solidworks

Experience with structural analysis methods (hand calcs, FEMAP, Ansys, etc.)

MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook)

Familiarity with configuration management systems such as Jira

Familiarity with requirement management systems such as Jama, Cameo, DOORS, etc.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working in small, dynamic engineering teams where each member often has multiple responsibilities

Active TS/SCI security clearance

Preferred Skills

Experience with NX and Team Center

Experience with configuration management systems such as Jira

Experience with requirement management systems such as Jama, Cameo, DOORS, etc.

EDUCATION EXPERIENCE

Level II ($101,000-$146,500): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 2-5 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Sr-level ($120,500-158,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable

This position is located in Mojave, CA. Consideration for hybrid work arrangement with at least 75% on-site time for well-qualified candidates.

Travel estimated to be 10% in support of the program

#LI-Onsite

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 involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.

Mojave Air Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.

Not much for th…

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