Apply on Employer Site

IRPI · 1 hour ago

R&D Mechanical Engineer - Fluid Systems (Spaceflight)

Wilsonville, OR

Full-time

Onsite

Mid Level

$95K/yr - $135K/yr

IRPI is pioneering the hardware that sustains life and enables exploration beyond Earth. They are seeking an R&D Mechanical Engineer who will perform rigorous analysis and design for fluid systems, collaborating with NASA partners to develop flight-ready hardware for space missions.

AerospaceConsultingProduct Research

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Perform rigorous analysis and trade studies for mechanical, thermal, and fluid systems

Create novel SolidWorks parts, assemblies, and detailed drawings that survive launch loads and operate reliably in extreme environments

Operate additive manufacturing equipment and shop tools to fabricate prototypes

Design and assemble complex test rigs

Instrument hardware, write test procedures, and execute data collection for fluid-thermal systems

Process experimental data using Python or MATLAB to generate clear engineering conclusions

Troubleshoot anomalies and determine root causes

Work at the intersection of biology, chemistry, and engineering, collaborating with NASA partners to integrate your hardware into larger life-support ecosystems

Qualification

Fluid MechanicsHeat TransferThermodynamics3D CAD (SolidWorks)Additive ManufacturingFEA/CFDData Analysis (MATLAB/Python)Cross-Disciplinary CollaborationTechnical Communication

Required

M.S./Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or related field OR B.S. with a distinguished portfolio of built hardware (Formula SAE, Baja, Rocketry, or complex personal projects) and mastery of first-principles analysis

Demonstrated proficiency of fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and thermodynamics. You will be assessed on your ability to apply these principles to novel scenarios

Proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks preferred) combined with a track record of building physical hardware (Formula SAE, research test rigs, complex hobbyist projects, etc.)

The ability to distill complex technical data into clear, concise written reports and presentations

This position requires access to export-controlled technology

Preferred

Experience with FEA/CFD and data-analysis scripting (MATLAB/Python)

A portfolio or thesis demonstrating a deep dive into a technical problem

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 Principals, 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