Research And Development Engineer

SpaceFactory is a frontier engineering company developing autonomous manufacturing and exploration systems for frontier environments. Our team blends robotics, materials science, and digital fabrication to build technologies that extend human capabilities — from lunar infrastructure to frontline manufacturing. If you like getting your hands dirty and want to make a disproportionate impact at a company that values your contributions, this is where you’ll thrive.

The Role

We’re seeking a hands-on, multidisciplinary R&D Engineer to join our NASA award-winning team in support of our space exploration and defense logistics programs. The ideal candidate has a mechanical or mechatronics engineering background, is fluent in both CAD and hardware prototyping, and thrives in building products from start to finish.

This is a ground-up engineering role — expect to design, fabricate, assemble, test, and iterate rapidly. You’ll work closely with a small team on robotics, automation, and manufacturing systems with both defense and space applications.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical and electromechanical systems in CAD (SolidWorks, OnShape, Fusion 360, or similar).
• Build, prototype, and assemble hardware from the ground up.
• Integrate actuators, sensors, and control systems into functional prototypes.
• Collaborate across disciplines to refine designs for manufacturability and reliability.
• Contribute to field testing and system validation.
• Document design iterations and support reporting for DoD and NASA programs.

Basic Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical, Mechatronics, or a related engineering field
• U.S. Citizenship (required to comply with federal contract requirements)
• Must be able to work onsite in the Huntsville, AL area
• Strong proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, OnShape, Fusion 360, Inventor)
• Hands-on prototyping and fabrication experience
• Basic familiarity with control systems and programming (e.g., Python, C++, Arduino, ROS, Klipper, ArduPilot)
• Must be able to lift and move equipment up to 40 lbs as part of regular prototyping and assembly work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with robotics, automation, and/or product development
• Experience in unmanned aerial/ground vehicle systems
• Proficiency with simulation tools such as FEA, CFD, thermal modeling, or granular mechanics modeling
• Interest in space systems, defense technologies, or dual-use hardware development

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work on frontier technologies with direct impact on space and defense missions
• Flat hierarchy and collaborative startup culture — your contributions are visible and valued
• Hands-on, project-driven work environment
• Long-term growth and equity opportunities as the company scales
• Competitive benefits and salary

To Apply

If you’re ready to take on one of humankind’s toughest engineering challenges and are committed to seeing it through for the long haul, reach out to us at Sign in to view email or apply through this portal. Please attach your resume and examples of your work along with a brief e-mail message with subject heading “R&D Engineer.” We look forward to hearing from you.