Principal Mechanical Engineer - COPVs

As a Mechanical Engineer (COPVs) for our Vehicle Engineering Team, you will own all aspects of the design, analysis, build, test and integration of flight composite overwrapped pressure vessels – working with cross-functional engineering teams to accomplish this. This means cradle-to-grave ownership of the COPVs and development of next generation cutting edge bottles to support future vehicles and missions.

Leveling will be commensurate with experience. Design, analyze, build, test, and document both innovative COPVs and COPV mounting structures Formulate the comprehensive cradle to grave Road Map for your hardware Automate COPV development and processes to streamline design, analysis, and documentation Work with and strengthen relationships with key suppliers who support COPV processes, components, and materials Size COPVs for future vehicles understanding system requirements and trade space Support first article build through the ramp to production in collaboration with the manufacturing team, rolling in DFM and reliability improvements Support development and qualification test campaigns in collaboration with the test team, creating test plans to gather key learnings and demonstrate flightworthiness Establish driving load cases and environments in collaboration with the loads/dynamics and thermal teams Collaborate effectively and frequently with manufacturing working on the shop floor to understand fabrication processes, incorporate feedback, and address needs Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field 12+ years’ experience working with composite materials 12+ years demonstrated experience designing and analyzing COPVs, SRMs, or similar Passion for working with composites, COPVs, and high-pressure systems Hands on experience fabricating composite parts either at university or in industry Strong knowledge of hand calculations for structural sizing and model validation Strong understanding of mechanics of materials, material failure modes, and associated analysis methods Familiarity with a wide set of manufacturing processes across both metallics and composites such as machining, forming, lamination, and winding Proficiency with CAD software and ability to learn new tools Demonstrated experience working collaboratively across different teams Ability to communicate technical challenges, explain rationale and/or resolve concerns