R&D Mechanical Engineer

This position requires access to export-controlled technology. Only U.S. citizens or nationals are eligible. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

About IRPI

IRPI pioneers hardware that sustains life and enables exploration—on orbit, on the Moon, and in austere terrestrial and defense environments. We develop experimental and flight-grade systems for spacecraft, habitats, suits, and a variety of subsystems, spanning CO₂ removal and air revitalization, hydroponics and sample preparation, waste management, fire safety, and thermal management, among others.

What sets IRPI apart is how we unite research, mechanical design, and fluid/thermal engineering to turn ideas into proven hardware—rapidly prototyped, lab-validated, and matured to experimental, flight-, or field-readiness. We thrive on building robust, testable solutions that push the boundaries of human presence and capability, whether that’s orbit, the lunar surface, or the most demanding environments on Earth.

Your Mission

As an R&D Mechanical Engineer at IRPI, you’ll drive cutting-edge, applied research in fluid-thermal systems for space exploration and defense—balancing rigorous analysis with hands-on engineering. You’ll own problems end-to-end: develop models and analytical methods, write and run computational studies, and turn insights into real hardware through CAD, in-house additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and lab experiments. Here, engineers contribute across the full lifecycle—from concept and FEA/CFD to test article build-outs, validation, and production. You’ll learn alongside senior engineers with flight-hardware pedigree, and you’ll watch your designs evolve into validated systems headed for orbit.

Key Responsibilities

Design, Analysis, and Prototyping

• Lead the design and analysis of complex mechanical systems. Perform analytical and computational studies, including hand calculations, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
• Translate concepts into manufacturable designs. Create and iterate 3D models and engineering drawings using SolidWorks, ensuring they are optimized for fabrication and assembly.
• Manage the prototyping lifecycle. Maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs) and manage configuration control from initial prototypes through to flight or field-ready builds.
• Drive in-house fabrication. Utilize additive manufacturing and various shop tools to produce high-quality prototypes, fixtures, and test hardware.

Testing and Data Analysis

• Execute rigorous testing protocols. Assemble and instrument test articles with sensors (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow, particulate) and conduct tests by authoring and executing detailed procedures.
• Troubleshoot and document in real time. Proactively identify and resolve issues with test setups, meticulously documenting all deviations, nonconformances, and corrective actions.
• Analyze data and draw conclusions. Process and analyze test data using tools like Excel, MATLAB, or Python. Generate clear, publication-quality plots and write concise engineering reports that tie findings directly to project requirements.

Collaboration and Professional Growth

• Communicate effectively with stakeholders. Present results and design rationale in test reports and design reviews, capturing key lessons learned to inform future work.
• Contribute to a culture of innovation. Actively participate in brainstorming sessions and design reviews, translating new research insights into practical, actionable design improvements.
• Collaborate across diverse teams. Work closely with senior engineers, cross-functional partners, and external stakeholders, including NASA programs, commercial space operators, and defense clients, to meet aggressive schedule and quality targets.
• Embrace continuous improvement. Seek and incorporate feedback to uphold a culture of practical excellence, integrity, and innovation.

Minimum Qualifications

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (will consider bioengineering, chemical engineering, nuclear engineering, or adjacent with proven engineering and fluid/thermal experience)
• Demonstrated experience in research, mechanical design, and fluids/thermal systems.
• Analytically strong in heat-transfer, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks (or similar CAD) for parts, assemblies, and detailed drawings (or equivalent 3D CAD)
• Demonstrated hands-on aptitude—prototype fabrication, test‐rig assembly, and use of common shop tool
• Clear, concise technical writing and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 3 years professional experience
• Knowledge of FEA/CFD and data-analysis scripting in MATLAB or Python
• Experience with test instrumentation and data acquisition (e.g., LabVIEW)
• Familiarity with additive manufacturing and traditional machining processes

• Salary: $95,000 – $150,000, based on experience

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical and dental insurance for employees and families
• Retirement: Employer contributions to help you build long-term security
• Time Off: Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and holiday schedule
• Family Support: Paid parental leave and flexibility to support work-life balance
• Performance Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities tied to company and individual success
• Professional Growth: Hands-on experience with flight hardware, mentorship from senior engineers, and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge space programs from day one
• Mission-Driven Work: Be part of a team developing breakthrough space hardware that directly impacts the future of exploration

How to Apply

Apply through our careers site. Be sure to answer all application questions fully and thoughtfully. Our hiring team reviews every application holistically and may also consider you for other positions that align with your skills and interests.

If you have a thesis, dissertation, or technical presentation (M.S. or Ph.D. work), please attach it to the application. A brief cover letter is suggested, but not required. If provided it should specifically discuss how your experience/research applies to IRPI's work.

Equal Opportunity Employer

IRPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected category.