About Opterus:
Opterus Research & Development is an innovative aerospace company based in Loveland, Colorado, specializing in deployable space systems and high-strain composite structures. We combine cutting-edge composite materials, origami-inspired architectures, and elegant engineering to deliver lightweight, high-performance structural systems for commercial, defense, and scientific missions.
About the Position:
As a Mechanical Engineer II or III, you will help design and develop lightweight, high-performance deployable structures and integrated systems for spacecraft and lunar surface missions. This role is ideal for someone with a passion for aerospace mechanisms, composites, or deployable structures, and who thrives in a fast‑paced, iterative environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and analyze deployable systems
- Take ownership of developing structural components and mechanisms from initial ideation through prototyping, qualification, and production
- Create CAD assemblies and documentation using SolidWorks to produce detailed models, build documentation, and mechanical drawings
- Support hardware assembly and integration by performing hands on work in a cleanroom environment to ensure precise and reliable system builds
- Test and validate structural components by executing performance tests, analyzing results, and confirming flight readiness
- Iterate and prototype designs frequently, characterizing performance, documenting findings, and refining concepts based on test data
- Collaborate across engineering and production teams to meet quality, schedule, and budget goals while ensuring alignment throughout the project lifecycle
- Solve complex engineering challenges by adapting quickly, pivoting when needed, and proposing innovative solutions to unforeseen issues
- Provide mentorship for junior Mechanical Engineers
- Perform additional engineering duties as required to support mission and program success
Qualifications:
- BS in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering field
- Mechanical Engineer II: 2+ years experience
- Mechanical Engineer III: 5+ years experience
- Experience with spacecraft design, deployable structures, and/or composites strongly preferred
- Demonstrated creative problem‑solving and engineering intuition
- Proficiency in GD&T and standard analysis practices
- Fluency in CAD (SolidWorks preferred)
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
- US citizen or permanent resident required
Compensation and Benefits:
- Flexible hybrid schedules (9/80 or 10/80) with at least two in office days per week
- Opterus covers 100% of employee premiums and 70% of dependent premiums
- Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, Life & AD&D
- 401(k) with 4% company match
- 9 paid holidays
- Mechanical Engineer II: $90,000-$118,000
- Mechanical Engineer III: $114,000-$140,000