Spacecraft Structures Test Engineer

About the company

Apex is a space startup that manufactures satellite buses and is involved in missile defense collaborations.

About this role

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.  ABOUT THE ROLE Spacecraft Structures Test Engineer Apex is looking for a Spacecraft Structures Test Engineer to own the validation of flight hardware from first build through system level testing. This is a highly multidisciplinary role focused on structural and mechanical testing, with strong crossover into electrical and system-level validation. You’ll work across mechanical, avionics, and production teams to define how we test, build the infrastructure to do it, and execute campaigns that prove our spacecraft in real environments. Responsibilities: - Own structural test strategy and execution across components, subsystems, and fully integrated spacecraft - Develop and operate fluid, hydraulic, and pressurized systems, including high-pressure and cryogenic environments - Design and integrate data acquisition and instrumentation (strain gauges, load cells, pressure transducers, thermocouples) - Write and automate test procedures and scripts (primarily Python) for execution and data analysis - Lead test operations end-to-end, including setup, execution, and post-test review - Troubleshoot hardware and drive root cause analysis on structural test failures - Partner cross-functionally with design, analysis, avionics, and manufacturing to close the loop between test results and design Requirements: - Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or related engineering field - 3+ years of experience in spacecraft, launch vehicle, or complex structural testing - Background designing large-scale structural test stands or load application systems - Strong fundamentals in structural mechanics, including strength, stability, and fatigue - Experience with structural analysis (hand calcs and/or FEM) and test correlation - Hands-on experience with instrumentation and lab equipment (strain, load, pressure, thermal measurements) - Experience designing, building, or operating structural test systems and hardware - Experience with test automation and scripting (Python or similar) - Ability to operate in fast-paced, high-ownership environments with evolving requirements Nice To Haves: - Experience with environmental testing (TVAC, vibration, shock, EMI/EMC) - Familiarity with NX/Teamcenter, Nastran, or ANSYS - Experience working with high-pressure or cryogenic systems WHY JOIN APEX? Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one. WHAT WE OFFER FOR FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES: - Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create - Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost - Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays - Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2% - 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel - Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day - Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family - Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self - World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life - Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.