Instrumentation Mechanical Engineer - Stratospheric Payloads

About Urban Sky: 

Urban Sky is a venture-backed aerospace startup that pioneer utilization of the stratosphere and reimagines the way humans view and analyze the earth. We design, build, operate, and sell stratospheric balloon systems, and the data we collect supports a wide range of applications, from real-time wildfire monitoring to urban mapping. Our technology is also employed by government customers including the Department of Defense (DoD), NASA, and others. Urban Sky sends flight vehicles to the stratosphere on a weekly basis. 

Our team consists of engineers, makers, developers, and doers who believe in the power of human potential when passion meets utility within a small, supportive team. At Urban Sky we strive to create a team culture grounded in candor, inclusion, respect and empowerment. 

We aim to build the next chapter of stratospheric history in Denver and are seeking self-starting, open-minded, and hard-working team members. 

About The Role: 

Urban Sky is seeking an Instrumentation Mechanical Engineer to join our Engineering team in Denver, CO. As an Instrumentation Mechanical Engineer at Urban Sky, you will play a critical role in expanding our payload capabilities by identifying, designing, and optimizing complex sensing systems for advanced stratospheric platforms. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team to develop innovative solutions that enable precise data collection and reliable operation in extreme environmental conditions, driving the evolution of our cutting-edge aerospace technologies. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Develop and optimize instrumentation systems for stratospheric platforms, focusing on sensors, data acquisition systems, and communication interfaces. 

• Conduct environmental and functional testing of instrumentation to ensure reliability and accuracy in extreme conditions. 

• Develop calibration and data validation processes to ensure the integrity of data collected from deployed systems. 

• Analyze performance data from deployed systems to drive iterative improvements in instrumentation designs. 

• Work closely with cross-disciplinary teams, including electrical, mechanical, and firmware engineers, to achieve mission success. 

• Work with suppliers to procure high-quality components and materials. 

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical, Instrumentation, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering. 

• 3-10+ years of experience in mechanical design, testing, and integration of instrumentation or similar systems. 

• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., OnShape, AutoCAD, or Fusion 360) for designing complex mechanical systems.  

• Proficiency in data acquisition systems and sensor technologies (e.g., temperature, pressure, humidity, optical sensors). 

• Experience with environmental testing, including thermal, vibration, and vacuum conditions. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data. 

• Strong knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes, including machining, 3D printing, and injection molding. 

• Skillful in diagnosing issues and implementing effective solutions. 

Nice-to-Haves/Preferred Skills: 

• Experience in aerospace or environmental monitoring applications. 

• Familiarity with integrating mechanical systems with electronics and sensors.  

• Knowledge of stratospheric or high-altitude conditions and their impact on mechanical systems. 

• Familiarity with data acquisition systems and sensor technologies. 

• Hands-on experience in designing enclosures and thermal management systems for extreme environments. 

Requirements: 

• Must be US Citizen or Permanent Resident 

• Must be located near Denver, CO 

Benefits: 

• Salary $120,000 - $150,000 per year  
  • We are required to post this salary range per Colorado law. Your salary will be determined based on your abilities and experience. 

• Stock Options 

• Medical, Vision and Dental 

• Unlimited Vacation Days 

• Cell Phone Bill Stipend 

NOTE: Research suggests that women and BIPOC individuals may self-select out of opportunities if they don’t meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage anyone who believes that they have the skills and the passion necessary to succeed here to apply for this role. 

This position may require the candidate to deal with commodities, software, technology, defense articles, and/or technical data which are subject to the Export Administration Regulations and/or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. Additional information may be requested so as to determine whether export authorization is required from the Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. If authorization is required, employment will be contingent upon the Company successfully obtaining such authorization from the relevant government agency. 

Urban Sky is an equal opportunity employer, and we value diversity. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.