Lead Mechanical Engineer, Compute Systems

Cowboy Space Corp. is building the infrastructure to power and connect the orbital economy. Our satellites operate in Low Earth Orbit to collect sunlight and enable a new class of capabilities—from powering on-orbit compute, to transmitting energy via infrared lasers (space-to-earth and space-to-space), powering on-orbit compute to delivering secure, high-bandwidth optical data. By rethinking how energy and data are generated and distributed in space, we’re unlocking entirely new ways to operate both in orbit and on Earth.Founded in 2024 by Baiju Bhatt (co-founder of Robinhood), Cowboy Space Corp. is backed by leading investors and built by a team from top aerospace and defense organizations. We’re moving quickly to solve complex technical challenges and build a new category of space infrastructure. About the Role:The Payload Mechanical team is looking for a Lead Mechanical Engineer to act as the responsible engineer for the structural and thermal-mechanical design of our space-based compute hardware. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated expert with deep experience in high-reliability space systems, comfortable driving everything from packaging architecture and thermal trade studies to hands-on hardware integration and qualification. This role covers electronics packaging, chassis design, thermal management, and structural qualification for compute and power electronics operating in the harsh environment of Low Earth Orbit. You will lead a team of mechanical engineers and work closely with electrical, thermal, and spacecraft systems teams to deliver robust, high-performance compute flight hardware ready for orbit. Previous experience driving end-to-end mechanical development of electronics packaging or compute hardware for space or high-reliability applications in a fast-paced environment is required. Responsibilities:Own the mechanical architecture of space-based compute hardware, including chassis, PCB retention, connector interfaces, and thermal management, from concept through productionPerform system-level trade studies on packaging, mass, and thermal performance to optimize compute hardware architectureLead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, setting technical direction, review standards, and execution paceDefine and own interfaces and technical budgets for compute and power electronics assembliesDrive structural and thermal analysis efforts, working with analysts to validate designs against requirementsDevelop and maintain mechanical drawings, GD&T specifications, and ICDs for internal manufacture and external vendorsDefine and execute mechanical integration and test plans, including environmental qualification (vibration, shock, thermal-vacuum)Represent the mechanical team in design reviews and system-level discussionsCollaborate cross-functionally with electrical, thermal, and spacecraft teams to ensure compatibility at all mechanical and thermal interfaces Basic Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field5+ years of experience in mechanical engineering for flight hardware in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability electronics programsDemonstrated experience as the technical lead or authority on the mechanical design of electronics enclosures or compute hardware for space or high-reliability applicationsProficiency in 3D CAD (NX, Solidworks, or equivalent) and engineering drawing/GD&TExperience with structural analysis and thermal modeling toolsExperience taking flight hardware through environmental qualification (vibration, shock, thermal-vacuum)Strong understanding of thermal management approaches for high-power electronics in vacuum environmentsExperience managing direct reports or leading a technical team Preferred Qualifications:Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering8+ years of experience developing flight hardware for space or defense programsExperience with conduction-cooled electronics packaging or cold plate design for space flight hardwareExperience with liquid cooling solutions for flight hardwareFamiliarity with high-power compute or GPU hardware packaging and associated thermal constraintsExperience with radiation design considerations for electronics operating in LEOExperience with deployable or articulating power or thermal structuresHands-on experience with flight hardware integration and test in a lab or cleanroom environmentPrior experience as a technical lead or engineering manager on a flight programCompensation and BenefitsThe salary range for this position is $150,000 - $225,000 annually. The actual base salary offered will depend on factors such as job-related skills, experience, qualifications, and internal equity.Equity in Cowboy Space Corp.Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) retirement savings planPaid time off10 paid holidays per calendar yearPaid parental leaveRelocation assistance if applicableDaily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacksITAR RequirementsExport Control Requirement: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here.DisclaimerThis job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at Cowboy Space Corp.’s discretion.Cowboy Space Corp. is an equal employment opportunity employer. We consider individuals for employment or promotion according to their skills, abilities and experience. Cowboy Space Corp. is committed to complying with all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, physical, mental or developmental disability, sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions relating to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), veteran status, military status, marital or registered domestic partnership status, medical condition (including cancer or genetic characteristics), genetic information, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, as well as any other category protected by federal, state or local laws.