Design Engineer

Location: Natick, MA

Sustaining Mechanical / Structural Analysis Engineer – Space Propulsion (Multiple Openings)

About Us

Busek is a leader in innovative space propulsion technologies, specializing in electric and chemical propulsion systems. Our team pioneers advancements in space exploration by developing cutting-edge propulsion solutions for government and commercial applications.

Summary

Busek is seeking multiple Mechanical Engineers to support the design, analysis, and sustainment of advanced space propulsion systems and spacecraft hardware. These roles span mechanical design, thruster design, and structural analysis, supporting several active development and flight programs.

The ideal candidates will have strong mechanical fundamentals and experience in SolidWorks-based design, structural analysis, and sustaining engineering, with the ability to make thoughtful design modifications to in-progress hardware to improve performance, reliability, and manufacturability. Depending on experience, candidates may take on design-focused, analysis-focused, or hybrid responsibilities.

How You Will Make an Impact

• Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies for propulsion systems and spacecraft hardware using SolidWorks.

• Support thruster mechanical design, including housings, mounts, interfaces, and structural components for electric and chemical propulsion systems.

• Perform structural and thermal analyses (static, dynamic, vibration, and launch load environments) for panel-mounted and spacecraft-integrated hardware.

• Generate detailed engineering drawings, GD&T, and documentation to support manufacturing and inspection.

• Provide sustaining engineering support, including design refinements, issue resolution, and updates to hardware already in production or testing.

• Support environmental testing activities such as vibration, thermal vacuum, and acceptance testing.

• Conduct trade studies to optimize designs for mass, strength, thermal performance, and manufacturability.

• Collaborate with propulsion, electrical, systems, and manufacturing engineers to integrate mechanical designs into larger spacecraft systems.

• Support prototype fabrication, assembly, and test, including hands-on troubleshooting.

• Work closely with vendors and aerospace machine shops to source and manufacture precision components.

• Support NCRs (Non-Conformance Reports), ECOs (Engineering Change Orders), root cause investigations, and corrective actions.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

• Experience in mechanical design and/or structural analysis, preferably in aerospace, defense, or high-technology environments.

• Strong experience with sustaining engineering, including modifications to in-progress or flight hardware.

• Proficiency in SolidWorks, including part and assembly modeling, drawings, and design for manufacturability.

• Experience using FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation) for structural and thermal analysis.

• Familiarity with aerospace hardware considerations, including materials selection, vibration environments, thermal management, and vacuum compatibility.

• Experience working with NCRs and ECOs.

• Strong vendor interaction experience, including supplier calls and coordination with machine shops.

• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work across disciplines.

Salary Range

The expected salary range for this position is $85,000 – $150,000, depending on experience, education, and alignment with organizational needs.

Benefits

• Competitive salary

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Paid vacation and holidays

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Opportunities for professional development and career growth

Export Control Notice (ITAR)

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), employment at Busek requires that applicants be one of the following:

• A U.S. citizen

• A lawful U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder)

• A refugee or individual granted asylum in the U.S.

• Or otherwise eligible to receive the required authorization from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce

For more information about ITAR regulations, please visit the DDTC Public Portal.