Mechanical Architect

Mechanical Architect

Infinite Orbits

Toulouse, France

About the Role

As the Satellite Mechanical Architect, you will own the mechanical design and integration strategy for our GEO satellite platform. This senior-level role requires deep technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and a hands-on approach. You’ll work across disciplines to architect mechanical systems that are robust, efficient, and tailored for the unique challenges of an in-orbit servicing mission.

Job Description

• Lead the design and development of the satellite’s mechanical architecture, including structures, deployables, and thermal interfaces.
• Perform or oversee FEA modelling and analysis for structural, thermal and thermoelastic to ensure compliance with mission and launch requirements.
• Collaborate with cross functional teams, including avionics, propulsion, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless integration to ensure seamless integration.
• Manage mechanical integration and test activities from component-level through full spacecraft assembly.
• Manage suppliers/partners involved in design, simulation, fabrication and testing.
• Support environmental qualification testing (vibe, TVAC, shock), including test planning and data review.
• Participate in design reviews and risk assessments throughout the development cycle.
• Manage and provide mentorship to junior engineers and foster technical excellence across the team.
• Responsible for maintaining documentation, including design specifications, test plans, performance reports. and ICDs.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in propulsion technologies and space mission requirements, and apply this knowledge to ongoing and future projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or related field).
• Minimum 7 years of experience in satellite mechanical and thermal design.
• Experience designing and integrating mechanical systems for large satellite platforms.
• Proficiency with CAD and FEA tools (e.g., NX, CATIA, SolidWorks, ANSYS, NASTRAN).
• Deep understanding of launch vehicle requirements, space environment effects, and mass/cg management.
• Demonstrated experience in thermal-mechanical interface management and structural-thermal trade-offs.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to changing project requirements in a dynamic environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.

Desirable Experience and Skills:

• Experience with full satellite lifecycle - from conceptual design to launch and commissioning.
• Familiarity with ECSS, NASA, or MIL-STD environmental qualification standards.
• Experience with large deployables, antenna structures, or propulsion system integration.
• Exposure to small-batch fabrication, rapid prototyping, or non-traditional manufacturing.
• Hands-on AIT (Assembly, Integration & Test) experience, including GSE and cleanroom protocols.
• Knowledge of radiation effects, outgassing, and thermal control strategies for GEO missions.
• Experience interfacing directly with launch providers and mission assurance teams.

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