Job Title: Mechanical Engineer, Launch Hardware
Job Description
This role focuses on the design, development, and deployment of launch hardware, production tooling, ground support equipment, and related mechanical systems. You will use Siemens NX to create detailed designs and documentation, while working hands-on to support fabrication, testing, and activation of hardware in a fast-paced engineering environment. The position is ideal for an early-career mechanical engineer with 1-2 years of experience who enjoys owning projects from concept through implementation and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams.
Responsibilities
Design and analyze mechanical systems that support launch operations, production tooling, ground support equipment, and related infrastructure.
Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, engineering drawings, and manufacturing documentation using Siemens NX.
Take ownership of projects from initial concept through design, fabrication, testing, and final implementation.
Collaborate closely with technicians, manufacturing teams, operations personnel, and other engineers to ensure successful project execution.
Perform engineering calculations and basic structural analysis to support sound design decisions.
Balance technical requirements with cost, schedule, manufacturability, and operational considerations throughout the design process.
Participate in design reviews and present technical solutions, trade studies, and project updates to leadership.
Support installation, testing, troubleshooting, and activation of mechanical hardware systems.
Assist in the development and refinement of production tooling and ground support equipment to improve reliability and efficiency.
Contribute to continuous improvement efforts by identifying design enhancements, process optimizations, and lessons learned from field operations.
Essential Skills
1-2 years of mechanical engineering experience in an internship, co-op, or professional work environment.
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
Ability to create 3D models, detailed drawings, assemblies, and manufacturing documentation.
Familiarity with core mechanical design principles, including machine elements, structural components, and manufacturing processes.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative engineering environment.
Demonstrated ability to perform engineering calculations and basic structural analysis to support design decisions.
Hands-on mindset with a willingness to engage directly with hardware, tooling, and equipment during fabrication, testing, and troubleshooting.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience designing mechanical structures, ground support equipment, tooling, or industrial equipment.
Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and engineering drawing standards.
Exposure to Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools such as ANSYS, FEMAP, or similar software.
Experience supporting fabrication, testing, installation, or field troubleshooting activities.
Demonstrated project ownership through internships, co-ops, sr design projects, or professional experience.
Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
Experience with CAD-driven workflows for production and assembly in a fast-paced engineering environment.
Work Environment
You will work in a dynamic, fast-paced engineering environment focused on launch hardware, production tooling, and ground support equipment. The role combines office-based design work in Siemens NX with hands-on activities in fabrication, test, and field settings. You will regularly collaborate with technicians, manufacturing teams, operations personnel, and other engineers, participating in design reviews and on-the-floor problem-solving. The environment emphasizes project ownership, cross-functional teamwork, and continuous improvement, offering exposure to the full lifecycle of mechanical systems from concept through deployment.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cocoa, FL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $41.00/hr.
Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Cocoa,FL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Sep 18, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
