Space Systems Engineer - Satellite Design

Space Systems Engineer - Satellite Design

SATLANTIS

Bilbao, Spain

As a Space Systems Engineer – Satellite Design, you will contribute to the definition, design, and evolution of complete satellite systems, combining technical depth with a system-level vision across the full mission lifecycle.

Your mission

Your mission will be to design, analyse, and manage satellite system architectures, ensuring that mechanical, structural, and system-level requirements are met throughout the mission lifecycle.

By combining technical execution with systems thinking, your work will help turn satellite concepts into robust, space-ready platforms.

You will:

• Design satellite concepts using CAD, including structure definition, subsystem layout, cable routing, and launcher compliance.
• Interface with external suppliers for key subsystems such as AOCS, communications, OBC, and propulsion.
• Perform preliminary assessments of structural integrity and system feasibility.
• Develop and manage system budgets, including mass, power, energy, link, and data budgets.
• Participate in and support verification campaigns, including structural and engineering models.
• Contribute to the preparation, management, and maintenance of project documentation.

Depending on your interests and experience, you may also contribute to:

• Project planning, tracking, and milestone execution.
• Satellite operations strategy and processes.
• Assembly, Integration, and Test (AIT) activities.
• Flight dynamics and mission analysis tasks.
• Thermal design and analysis at satellite and instrument level.

What will set you up for success

• A solid engineering foundation: A Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience, gives you the base to work at system level.
• Mechanical and systems mindset: Comfort working with CAD tools such as SolidWorks supports satellite concept definition and integration.
• Passion for satellite design: Interest or experience in modelling, analysing, and designing space systems fuels your ability to grow in the role.
• Analytical and problem-solving approach: You enjoy tackling complex technical challenges with structure, creativity, and rigor.
• Autonomy and collaboration: A proactive, self-managed working style combined with strong team spirit helps projects move forward.
• Clear communication: Fluency in English enables collaboration in an international context; Spanish is a plus.
• Advanced tools as a bonus: Experience with FEM tools (e.g. Nastran), thermal tools (ESATAN), AIT activities, or basic Python programming will accelerate your impact.