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2026 Graduate - Mechanical Engineer - Space Science Instrumentation

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory · Laurel, MD · 1 mo ago
On-siteInformation Technology$85k/yrVolunteer

About the role

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer ready to take on new challenges as part of our team leading the design, development, integration, and delivery of spaceflight hardware for both civil space exploration and national security missions. You will work alongside systems, optical, mechanical, structural, and thermal engineers, in partnership with our companion group, SRX, which provides electronics, FPGA, firmware, and software expertise.

Responsibilities

  • Design, draft, and oversee fabrication of parts and sub-assemblies.
  • Perform mechanical analyses and/or interface with thermal and stress engineers to verify design integrity.
  • Design mechanical GSE and test fixtures.
  • Work closely with scientists to determine appropriate mechanical requirements.
  • Provide input to instrument proposals and assist in development of new and/or improved instrument concepts.

Requirements

  • Possess a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
  • Familiar with PTC and/or Solidworks CAD software.
  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, and demonstrated success while working within a team environment.
  • Strong technical experience as demonstrated in at least one internship, research experience, or project outside of the classroom.
  • Willing and able to travel occasionally (5%) to NASA facilities and sub-contractor sites.
  • Willing and able to support shift work occasionally (5%) during Integration and Test events.
  • Willing and able to ultimately obtain Top Secret SCI level security clearance.

Qualifications

  • You meet our minimum qualifications if you...
  • Possess a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
  • Have excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, and have demonstrated success while working within a team environment.
  • Have strong technical experience as demonstrated in at least one internship, research experience, or project outside of the classroom.
  • Are willing and able to travel occasionally (5%) to NASA facilities and sub-contractor sites.
  • Are willing and able to support shift work occasionally (5%) during Integration and Test events.
  • Are willing and able to ultimately obtain Top Secret SCI level security clearance.

Additional Information

Our work spans the complete program lifecycle—from concept development and proposal efforts through design, fabrication, environmental qualification, integration, launch support, and on-orbit operations. Our programs support NASA's science portfolio, including missions such as Parker Solar Probe, DART, Europa Clipper, Dragonfly, and future flagship missions, while also advancing innovative technologies and operational capabilities for Department of War and other national security space missions.

About Us: Why Work at APL? The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

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