Advanced Programs Engineer, Staff (Mechanical Engineer, Lead)

About the Role

Redwire’s Goleta facility delivers advanced power generation technologies that enable spacecraft to operate reliably across every orbit and mission profile. With proprietary designs, deep technical expertise, and large-scale production capabilities, the team develops solar array solutions tailored to each customer’s size, power, and orbital needs. At the heart of these offerings is Redwire’s patented Roll-Out Solar Array (ROSA), an award-winning system that uses composite booms and modular photovoltaic blankets to create compactly stowable, highly efficient solar arrays. These mission-proven power systems have supported successful deployments across LEO, GEO, and deep space missions, including the ISS, NASA’s IXPE mission, and NASA’s DART mission.

We are seeking an Advanced Programs Engineer, Staff to join our team in Goleta, CA. This role blends mechanical engineering duties—including mechanical and electrical design, systems engineering, and structural analysis—with business development responsibilities such as defining system requirements, formulating system architectures, identifying potential customers and partners, fostering stakeholder relationships, and aiding in marketing and sales strategies.

Responsibilities

• Technical Lead in Business Pursuits: Function as a technical leader for new solar array business pursuits under the guidance of the Advanced Programs Engineering Manager.
• Configuring Solar Array Designs: Design solar array configurations, including creating CAD models, sizing photovoltaic power systems, and collaborating with the structural analysis team to meet customer needs and produce proposal technical volumes.
• Reviewing and Guiding Customer Requirements: Examine client requirements and guide customers in creating new product specifications. Develop Statements of Work (SOWs), Supplier Deliverable Item Lists (SDILs), and Verification-Compliance Matrices.
• Subcontractor Liaison: Serve as the technical point of contact for subcontractors, including cell suppliers, composites manufacturers, and other spacecraft components. Collaborate with the internal supply chain team on proposal initiatives to ensure technical aspects are addressed and communication is efficient.
• Strategic Contribution to Growth: Contribute to marketing and sales strategies aimed at expanding the solar array product line. Participate in Internal Research and Development (IRAD) and other developmental projects, integrating technical and business insights for company growth.
• Collaborate on Product Design: Work with various engineering teams to stay current on product designs and provide guidance on market needs. Engage in cross-functional collaboration to ensure seamless integration, problem-solving, and high-quality product design.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 8 or more years of industry experience in mechanical or aerospace engineering.
• 2 or more years of industry experience with relevant spacecraft structures or mechanisms.
• Experience with CAD software and space solar array power analysis.
• Prior mechanical design experience.
• US citizen or legally authorized to work in the US (permanent resident/green card holder; visa sponsorship not accepted).

Desired Skills

• Familiarity with deployable solar arrays, including flexible blanket technologies, or other deployable mechanical systems such as antennas and reflectors.
• Ability to develop and manage requirements specifications using systems engineering best practices.
• Experience with business development activities and direct customer interactions with clear and effective communication.
• Capability to use Solidworks CAD software and Solidworks Product Data Management (PDM).
• Aptitude for managing subcontractors and developing specifications and Statements of Work (SOWs).
• Understanding of static and dynamic structural analysis principles, including structural strength and stiffness.
• Familiarity with photovoltaics and a solid grasp of general electrical principles.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Passion for space exploration.

Benefits

We offer a highly competitive benefits package along with a commitment to our core values of Integrity, Innovation, Impact, Inclusion, and Excellence. We encourage growth, collaboration, and strive to build a diverse and inclusive culture.

Pay

Pay Range: $135,000 - $175,000

Redwire determines pay for positions using local, national, and industry-specific survey data. We evaluate external equity, cost of labor, and prevailing wage index for comparable roles. Salaries are based on the applicant’s level of experience, education, specialized knowledge, and skills, as well as external market rates, internal budget, and equity within the company.