Mechatronics Engineer Launch Systems

SCEYE Inc seeks a Mechatronics Engineer to own the electromechanical release interface for HAPS launches, blending hardware rework, sensor integration, and simulation-driven validation. This on-site role in Moriarty, NM works closely with structural and systems engineers to ensure safe, reliable release sequences across missions.

Responsibilities

• Own the design and integration of the electrical-to-mechanical interface that enables HAPS release from the launch system.
• Define actuation logic, fault detection, and inhibit/arm sequencing to meet safety and reliability standards.
• Collaborate with structural and systems engineers to ensure interface loads, timing, and environmental conditions are properly accounted for.
• Audit current launch electronics to identify failure modes, single points of failure, and durability gaps.
• Lead hardware rework efforts including PCB modifications, connector upgrades, harness improvements, and enclosure hardening for field use.
• Define qualification and acceptance criteria for reworked assemblies and maintain revision-controlled hardware documentation.
• Identify external data inputs required to condition or gate the release event, such as load, position, wind, and vehicle attitude.
• Select, integrate, and validate sensors that provide those inputs to the release electronics.
• Develop signal processing and threshold logic to convert sensor data into reliable go/no-go release decisions.
• Improve wireless command and control range and reliability for launch electronics.
• Assess and implement RF solutions suitable for open-field launch operations.
• Perform link-budget analyses and conduct range testing under representative field conditions.
• Build simulation models of launch motions and forces experienced by the HAPS during the release sequence.
• Use simulation outputs to bound structural loads, validate release timing windows, and identify edge cases before live testing.
• Update models as hardware evolves and validate them against instrumented test data.
• Participate in assembling HAPS vehicles for individual missions alongside the broader assembly team.
• Provide launch system expertise during integration to ensure compatibility between the vehicle and launch interface hardware.

Requirements

• B.S. in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• 3+ years of experience in electromechanical systems design, hardware bring-up, or embedded systems integration.
• Hands-on PCB rework and electronics troubleshooting experience.
• Experience integrating sensors (load cells, IMUs, encoders, or similar) into control or monitoring systems.
• Familiarity with RF/wireless communication systems and link budget fundamentals.
• Ability to read and produce electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.

Technologies

• MATLAB/Simulink
• Adams

Benefits

• Chef-Prepared Lunches
• Snacks & Refreshments
• Wellness Perks
• Dog-Friendly Environment
• Comprehensive Health Coverage
• 401(k) with Match
• High-Performance Culture

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with separation systems, pyrotechnic or electromechanical release mechanisms, or aerospace GSE.
• Background in dynamics modeling or multibody simulation (MATLAB/Simulink, Adams, or similar).
• Familiarity with DO-160 or MIL-STD environmental qualification testing.
• Prior experience in a launch, range, or field operations environment.
• Exposure to lighter-than-air, stratospheric, or HAPS vehicle programs a plus.

Working Conditions

Full-time, on-site in Moriarty, NM. The role spans lab bench electronics and field operations at the launch site. Must be comfortable working outdoors in variable weather conditions during launch campaigns. Physical requirements include lifting up to 50 lbs and working within or around large vehicle structures. Some travel to supplier sites or external test facilities may be required.