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IRPI · 2 months ago

Mechanical Engineer, Space Systems (Early Career)

Wilsonville, OR

Full-time

Onsite

Entry Level

$85K/yr - $105K/yr

1+ years exp

IRPI is pioneering the hardware that sustains life and enables exploration beyond Earth. This role offers a rare opportunity to design, prototype, and test real spaceflight hardware, where engineers contribute across the full lifecycle on active NASA and commercial space programs.

AerospaceConsultingProduct Research

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Assist senior engineers with analysis, design, and trade studies for mechanical, thermal, and fluid systems

Contribute ideas during whiteboard sessions and design reviews

Create and revise SolidWorks parts, assemblies, and detailed drawings

Maintain bills of materials and configuration control

Operate additive manufacturing equipment and shop tools to fabricate prototypes and test fixtures

Assemble test articles and assist in flight-hardware builds

Instrument hardware, execute test procedures, and collect data for a variety of fluid-thermal systems

Troubleshoot test setups and document deviations

Process test data using Excel, MATLAB, or Python; generate clear plots and engineering conclusions

Work closely with a variety of teams across NASA partners, commercial space operators, and suppliers

Embrace feedback, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, high integrity, and excellence

Qualification

Mechanical EngineeringSolidWorksFluid MechanicsThermodynamicsAdditive ManufacturingData AnalysisTechnical WritingHands-on AptitudeCommunication SkillsTeam Collaboration

Required

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Solid grasp of design, heat-transfer, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials

Proficiency in SolidWorks for parts, assemblies, and detailed drawings (or equivalent 3D CAD)

Demonstrated hands-on aptitude—prototype fabrication, test‐rig assembly, and use of common shop tool

Clear, concise technical writing and verbal communication skills

This position requires access to export-controlled technology. Only U.S. citizens or nationals are eligible

Preferred

M.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with experience in research, mechanical design, and/or fluids/thermal systems

1-3 years experience gained through internships, co-ops, senior projects, or research assistantships

Working knowledge of FEA/CFD and data-analysis scripting in MATLAB or Python

Experience with test instrumentation and data acquisition (e.g., LabVIEW)

Familiarity with additive manufacturing and traditional machining processes

Exposure to aerospace qualification standards (NASA-STD-5001, MIL-STD-1540, or similar)

Benefits

Comprehensive medical and dental insurance for employees and families

Employer contributions to help you build long-term security

Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and holiday schedule

Paid parental leave and flexibility to support work-life balance

Annual bonus opportunities tied to company and individual success

Hands-on experience with flight hardware, mentorship from senior engineers, and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge space programs from day one

Be part of a team developing breakthrough space hardware that directly impacts the future of exploration