Portable Life Support System (PLSS) Mechanical Engineer

Axiom Space is a human space exploration company, building era-defining space infrastructure and delivering technology-driven solutions that will empower civilization to transcend Earth. Beginning with Axiom Station, successor to the International Space Station, the company is pioneering a next-generation orbital settlement that will foster groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity and drive the global space economy of tomorrow. Today, guided by the vision of leading humanity's expansion off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and beyond. For more information about Axiom Space, visit www.axiomspace.com.

Axiom Space fosters a work environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a bold and dynamic PLSS Mechanical Engineer who is fueled by high ownership, execution horsepower, growth mindset, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and life itself, for the benefit of all on Earth and beyond.

POSITION SUMMARY

We are looking for a resilient, high-energy, experienced PLSS Mechanical Engineer, who will primarily be responsible for aiding Axiom’s Portable Life Support System (or AxPLSS) team with the development, maturation, and operation of spaceflight hardware to support the Axiom Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Spacesuit. This role will develop, iterate, and mature single-suit architecture designs for multiple mission environments (microgravity, partial gravity) by owning product delivery timelines through concept, design, fabrication, assembly, delivery, on-orbit demonstration, and on-orbit services.

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Define and create modern space suit standards and practices, driving Axiom to the forefront of space suit production and operation

• Generate and/or review CAD models, engineering schematics, drawings, analysis, assessments, and procedures for components, assemblies, and suit assembly

• Establish an efficient product lifecycle starting in the supply chain all the way through final integration that balances cost, complexity, and quality

• Validate designs by analysis or test, building development articles as needed

• Lead design and production reviews internally and externally with suppliers and customers

• Support the manufacturing and assembly of hardware in the facility and through on-orbit operation

• Communicating project progress, status, and potential issues to stakeholders and leadership

• Implementing and maintaining agile project management methodologies throughout the project lifecycle

• Perform additional job duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS: 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education & Experience

• B.S. Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field required

• 7+ years’ experience in life support engineering, or similar role preferred

• Strong understanding of space environments (grounding/bonding, thermal, vacuum, regolith) and how they affect design decisions

• Experience in defining and implementing engineering standards, processes, and practices

• Hands on experience building, testing, and/or assembling hardware

• Familiarity with flight hardware development and certification

• Experience designing complex systems that balance mass, cost, and capability

• Knowledge of NASA or commercial space program standards

• Track record of delivering outcomes in ambiguous, fast-moving environments

• Uses good judgement to problem-solve proactively, positively impacting hard challenges

• Proven to deliver high quality results under tight deadlines

Core Skills

• Passion for space and the mission

• Entrepreneurial, growth mindset

• High EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally

• Tech-solutioning in using systems and tools to move smarter and faster

Core Competencies:

Embody our core values of leadership, innovation, and teamwork. In addition, to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Accountability

• Technical Rigor

• Execution Discipline

• Pride of Delivery

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task.

Requirements 

• Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation

• Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position

• Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones

Physical Requirements

• Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time)

• May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time)

• Equipment and Machines

• Standard office equipment (PC, phone, printer, etc.)

Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, regional color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.