Hybrid Mechanisms Engineer I at Karman+

Position: Mechanisms Engineer I (RE - Responsible Engineer) 

Location: Denver, CO

Position Type: Full-time

Mission: High Frontier – Design, Build, Integrate, Test, and Deploy Spacecraft Mechanisms & Robotic Systems

At Karman+, we’re a space startup with a bold mission to push the boundaries of in-space capabilities. For our High Frontier mission, we’re building a spacecraft loaded with mechanisms and robotic systems—from robotic arms to solar array drive assemblies (SADA) and gimbals. If you’re a highly skilled mechanical engineer with expertise in space-rated mechanisms, this role offers the chance to take direct ownership of critical spacecraft subsystems and drive them from design to deployment.

What it takes to be successful in this role:

As the Mechanisms Responsible Engineer, you’ll be accountable for the end-to-end development of specific mechanical and robotic subsystems for the High Frontier mission. From the early design stages to on-orbit deployment, you’ll ensure that each moving part performs reliably in the harsh environment of space. You’ll work hands-on with CAD models, run simulations, lead testing efforts, and collaborate cross-functionally to integrate these mechanisms with the rest of the spacecraft.

This role requires deep technical expertise in spacecraft mechanisms, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to make independent engineering decisions. If you’re passionate about tackling complex mechanical challenges and are ready to take ownership of mission-critical components, we’d love to talk to you.

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead the design, analysis, integration, testing, and deployment of specific spacecraft mechanisms and robotic systems, such as robotic arms, gimbals, and other mission-critical components.
• Own every phase of the lifecycle for your assigned subsystem—from initial concept through flight readiness and in-orbit support, ensuring performance and reliability in extreme environments.
• Make autonomous technical decisions on subsystem architecture, design trade-offs, material selection, and component specifications to meet mission requirements within budget and schedule constraints.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams (e.g., systems engineering, software, power) to ensure seamless integration of the mechanical subsystems with the broader spacecraft.
• Oversee the sourcing and procurement of specialized components for your subsystem, working closely with vendors to ensure that all parts meet mission specifications and integration requirements.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with the mechanical and robotic subsystems. Conduct regular reviews to address technical risks and adjust mitigation strategies as needed.
• Ensure all designs meet regulatory, operational, and quality standards, and act as the technical checkpoint for your subsystem before major reviews or integration milestones.

What You Bring

• Foundational experience in mechanical engineering with hands-on experience in spacecraft mechanisms or robotic systems, ideally including work on space-rated assemblies like robotic arms, SADAs, or gimbals.
• Expertise in mechanical design, structural analysis, actuators, motors, linkages, thermal considerations, and all the nuances of designing mechanisms for space applications.
• Strong problem-solving skills—you’re as comfortable working with CAD models and FEA as you are in a test lab debugging system-level issues.
• Familiarity with project management tools and an ability to track and prioritize tasks for your subsystem to meet project deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex mechanical and robotics challenges to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Requirements

• Foundational experience in structural or mechanical or robotic engineering, ideally for spacecraft or aerospace applications.
• BS or MS in engineering, aerospace engineering, or related technical field. 

Additional Information

We Offer

Our cash compensation amount for this role is targeted at $100,000.00 - $140,000.00 annually in this location. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors including candidate experience and expertise and may vary from the amount listed above.

Top Benefits & Perks

As a member of the Karman+ team, you’ll enjoy an impressive benefits package:

• Equity Incentives - Participate in our shared success.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans for top tier plans with additional buy-up plan options. 
• Short-term Disability and Long-term Disability covered by Karman+
• Basic Life Insurance covered by Karman+
• 401k plan
• Unlimited Paid Time Off - We focus on what you get done, not how many hours or days you work.

Location & Work Environment

This position is full-time in-person at our offices & lab in Denver, CO. If you reside in locations outside of daily commuting distance you will be considered, however, no relocation or travel assistance will be provided by Karman+ for this position. This position operates in an office environment. This entails working inside in an office space wherein you may be provided with a public work station (cubicle) or private offices. In the performance of the duties and responsibilities of this job, you will be required to view a computer terminal for prolonged periods of time.

Travel

Occasional travel to work site locations may be expected. Overnight stays may be required from time to time for training, seminars, conferences, meetings, events, or visits to onsite locations.

Disclaimer

This job posting is not intended to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required. Karman+ reserves the right to change or assign additional duties, responsibilities, and activities at any time with or without notice. 

Hiring Practices

Karman+ is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in hiring or any employment decision based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or other applicable legally protected characteristic. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact hr@karmanplus.com.