Principal Mechanical Engineer

About Terran Orbital

Terran Orbital is a leading manufacturer of satellite products primarily serving the aerospace and defense industries. We provide end‑to‑end satellite solutions, combining design, production, launch planning, mission operations, and on‑orbit support to meet the needs of our military, civil, and commercial customers.

Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our growing GNC Sensor Modules team. Reporting to the Sr. Product Director, you will develop and support the design, prototype, qualification, and sustainment of innovative components and modules for spacecraft.

• Use MATLAB to analyze stability and performance of components.
• Develop preliminary designs grounded in sound engineering reasoning.
• Create and lead detailed design efforts, applying GD&T and manufacturing methods.
• Perform structural, thermal, and dynamic analysis to improve design performance.
• Conduct final reviews of mechanical and electrical drawings.
• Test modules at subsystem and satellite levels to validate design intent.
• Develop new analytical methods and processes to enhance module performance predictability.
• Drive process development and continuous‑improvement initiatives.
• Provide technical guidance to engineering and project teams.
• Serve as subject‑matter expert in assigned technical areas.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering;
  Master’s degree or Ph.D. preferred.
• Minimum 12 years of experience in aerospace and defense product development.
• Proficiency with Solid Works or similar CAD packages.
• Proficiency with finite‑element analysis.
• Advanced knowledge of complex, high‑precision rotating mechanisms.
• Leadership experience completing projects on scope, budget, and schedule.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with engineering review boards and root‑cause corrective actions.
• U.S. citizenship and eligibility to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

• Experience with EPDM or other PDM software.
• Proficiency with shop tools, assembly techniques, inspection methods, and equipment.
• Knowledge of rotor‑dynamics design and analysis.
  
  Experience with bearing analysis software (ORBIS or equivalent).
• Experience with Altium or similar electrical design software.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.

$175,000 – $220,000 USD, commensurate with experience.

• 100% company‑paid medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) match.
• Flexible time off (FTO).
• Education reimbursement.
• Additional perks: tuition reimbursement, employee referrals, and swag.

Employees must sit or stand for long periods, lift up to 10 lb routinely and up to 25 lb occasionally. The role is generally sedentary with substantial computer usage.

A U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual, or eligible individual who can obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. The position requires a current U.S. national security clearance or eligibility.

Terran Orbital is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We consider applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or membership in any other protected class.