This role pays more than
84%
of similar roles. Most pay
$137,500–$192,750
— the shaded band above.
At the midpoint, this role pays about
$208k
versus about
$165k
for comparable roles.
Based on 240 similar postings.
Employer
About L3Harris
L3Harris Technologies is a US aerospace and defense technology company providing space and airborne systems, communications, electronic warfare, and missile propulsion solutions for government and commercial customers.
L3Harris currently has
470 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$106,500–$197,500
across 185 roles with salary data.
Scientist, Mechanical Engineer (Space Optical Mechanisms) joins the Space, Superiority and Imaging Division to support customer-funded programs and internal research involving high-reliability airborne and space-based remote sensing payloads. This role involves designing, developing, and analyzing complex mechanical hardware, including precision space structures, deployable mechanisms, and opto-mechanical support systems for telescopes. The engineer will manage requirements, perform trade studies, conduct tolerance analyses, and oversee manufacturing tasks like tooling design and assembly integration. Key technical skills include 3D modeling in tools such as Creo, NX, Catia, or Solidworks; analysis using FEMAP, MSC Nastran, ANSYS, or MATLAB; and proficiency in GD&T and tolerance stack-up. The role addresses the challenge of creating high-reliability hardware capable of surviving vacuum, thermal extremes, and contamination-sensitive environments while ensuring performance for mission-critical space exploration and monitoring applications.
Design high-precision space opto-mechanical hardware including machined components, composite structures, and deployable mechanisms.
Perform mechanism sizing, torque margin calculations, and tolerance stack-up analysis using industry standards.
Develop 3D models and engineering documentation including drawings, Bills of Materials (BOM), and test plans.
Lead technical reviews and present design details to customers and independent reviewers.
Conduct testing to provide proof-of-concept and qualification for new mechanical designs.
Support production by designing specialized tooling, test equipment, and shop aids.
Manage project performance by providing regular cost and schedule updates to management.
Resolve nonconformances through root cause investigations and corrective action activities.
What we're looking for
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering and 12 years of experience, a Graduate Degree and 10 years of experience, or 16 years of experience without a degree.
Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI Security Clearance.
At least 7 years of experience with CAD modeling and design tools.
Prior or current experience with spaceflight mechanism applications.
At least 5 years of professional experience leading multi-disciplinary mechanical engineering teams through the full lifecycle from requirements to launch.
Professional experience with analysis methods including FEA and hand-calculations.
Proficiency in 3D modeling, design for manufacturing, and tolerance stack-up analysis (preferred).
Mechanical Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
MCAD
3D Modeling
Mechanical Analysis
Earned Value Management (EVMS)
System Integration
Space Vehicle Systems
optical payload, s
Project Management
Government Contracting
Product Development