R&D Engineer - Space Thermal / Fluid Systems

This position requires access to export-controlled technology. Only U.S. citizens or nationals are eligible. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

About IRPI

IRPI pioneers hardware that sustains life and enables exploration—on orbit, on the Moon, and in austere terrestrial and defense environments. We develop experimental and flight-grade systems for spacecraft, habitats, suits, and a variety of subsystems, spanning CO₂ removal and air revitalization, hydroponics and sample preparation, waste management, fire safety, and thermal management, among others.

What sets IRPI apart is how we unite research , mechanical design , and fluid / thermal engineering to turn ideas into proven hardware—rapidly prototyped, lab-validated, and matured to experimental, flight-, or field-readiness. We thrive on building robust, testable solutions that push the boundaries of human presence and capability, whether that’s orbit, the lunar surface, or the most demanding environments on Earth.

Your Mission

As an R&D Mechanical Engineer at IRPI, you’ll drive cutting-edge, applied research in fluid-thermal systems for space exploration and defense—balancing rigorous analysis with hands-on engineering. You’ll own problems end-to-end : develop models and analytical methods, write and run computational studies, and turn insights into real hardware through CAD, in-house additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and lab experiments. Here, engineers contribute across the full lifecycle—from concept and FEA / CFD to test article build-outs, validation, and production. You’ll learn alongside senior engineers with flight-hardware pedigree, and you’ll watch your designs evolve into validated systems headed for orbit.

Key Responsibilities

Design, Analysis, and Prototyping

• Lead the design and analysis of complex mechanical systems. Perform analytical and computational studies, including hand calculations, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
• Translate concepts into manufacturable designs. Create and iterate 3D models and engineering drawings using SolidWorks, ensuring they are optimized for fabrication and assembly.
• Manage the prototyping lifecycle. Maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs) and manage configuration control from initial prototypes through to flight or field-ready builds.
• Drive in-house fabrication. Utilize additive manufacturing and various shop tools to produce high-quality prototypes, fixtures, and test hardware.

Testing and Data Analysis

Collaboration and Professional Growth

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Benefits

How to Apply

Apply through our careers site. Be sure to answer all application questions fully and thoughtfully. Our hiring team reviews every application holistically and may also consider you for other positions that align with your skills and interests.

If you have a thesis, dissertation, or technical presentation (M.S. or Ph.D. work), please attach it to the application. A brief cover letter is suggested, but not required. If provided it should specifically discuss how your experience / research applies to IRPI's work.

Equal Opportunity Employer

IRPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected category.