Approach Venture · 2 days ago
Rotordynamics Engineer
El Segundo, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid Level
$120K/yr - $180K/yr
3+ years expApproach Venture is a fast-growing, venture-backed space technology startup seeking a Rotordynamics Engineer to design, analyze, and validate high-speed rotating systems critical to next-generation space platforms. The role involves leading rotordynamic design, evaluating bearing systems, and integrating rotating systems into full space platforms.
Management Consulting
Hiring Manager
Torey Bell
Responsibilities
Lead rotordynamic design and analysis for high-speed rotating components including turbines, shafts, impellers, and motor-driven assemblies
Design and evaluate bearing systems including rolling element bearings, fluid film bearings, and magnetic bearing technologies
Perform stability, critical speed, vibration, and resonance analyses using analytical methods and simulation tools
Develop models for operation in vacuum, thermal extremes, and long-life space environments
Partner with mechanical, propulsion, and electrical teams to integrate rotating systems into full space platforms
Own test planning and execution including spin testing, vibration characterization, and failure analysis
Drive design iterations based on test data and performance requirements
Support reliability, lifetime prediction, and risk mitigation for mission-critical hardware
Qualification
Required
3+ years of experience in rotordynamics, rotating machinery, or high-speed mechanical systems
Strong background in vibration analysis, critical speed modeling, and system stability
Experience designing or analyzing bearing systems (rolling element, fluid, or magnetic)
Hands-on experience with rotating hardware in high-RPM environments
Proficiency with relevant simulation and analysis tools (ANSYS, MATLAB, DyRoBeS, or similar)
Solid mechanical engineering fundamentals (dynamics, materials, thermal effects, structural behavior)
Preferred
Background in aerospace, space systems, propulsion, turbomachinery, vacuum systems, or high-performance electric motors
Experience with turbines, compressors, jet engines, or high-speed industrial rotating equipment
Exposure to space environment design constraints (vacuum lubrication, thermal cycling, long-life operation)
Test development experience for high-speed rotating systems
Startup or rapid development environment experience
Company
Approach Venture
Enabling founding teams building the future of frontier technology to achieve their full potential.
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Bryce Dabbs
Founder & CEO
Tristan Cembrinski
Partner
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