About Astral Materials
Astral Materials is transforming the industry of semiconductor crystal growth by
addressing the root cause of material defects and inconsistencies: gravity. We are developing a proprietary microgravity crystal growth process that uses microgravity as a hardware subsystem to produce ultra-high-quality semiconductor crystals. Our solution addresses the growing needs of advanced applications currently bottlenecked by material quality, such as quantum computing, photonics, and high-power devices.

Position Overview
We are seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer to join our team. The ideal
candidate will have experience designing and building complex automated systems, a mechatronics background, and a passion for building space hardware. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work on groundbreaking technology in a fast-paced, hands-on environment with a close-knit team of engineers passionate about commercializing
space.

Key Responsibilities
- Design mechanical systems for automated in-space manufacturing
hardware
- Prototype, integrate, and test complex electromechanical systems
- Support assembly, integration, and environmental testing
- Work closely with a small, interdisciplinary team to iterate designs quickly
and support hardware development.
Required.
- B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related
field.
- Relevant CAD experience (SolidWorks, Onshape, etc)
- Hands-on experience designing and building automated systems
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a highly
collaborative, in-person team.

Preferred Background
- Experience designing for high-vibration or launch environments
- Industrial, process, or high-temperature systems experience
- Mechatronics and electrical integration experience
- Experience at a small, fast-moving hardware startup

Location & Work Environment
- Position is in-person in Mountain View, California.
- Occasional travel for payload testing and integration (e.g., travel to launch site).

Compensation & Benefits
- Salary of $95,000 – $120,000, depending on experience level.
- Equity in a startup with potential for significant growth.
- Unlimited PTO.
- Up to $5,000 in relocation assistance, if applicable.