Pyrotechnics Engineer H/F

Alta Ares; Paris; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Alta Ares in Paris is seeking a hands-on engineer to perform thermo-mechanical simulations for defense systems, focusing on static/dynamic analysis, vibration, and fatigue. You will model pyrotechnic phenomena and provide actionable design recommendations.

You will define models and boundary conditions, interpret results, prepare notes and reports, and collaborate with mechanical design, systems engineering, testing, and manufacturing teams to ensure traceability and high quality.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of structural mechanics and dynamics.
• Knowledge of finite element analysis methods.
• Experience with explicit simulation and rapid transient phenomena.
• Knowledge of pyrotechnic and/or ballistic phenomena.
• Proficiency in LS-DYNA, Abaqus, ANSYS, or equivalent.
• Ability to analyze complex results and translate them into technical recommendations.
• Knowledge of mechanical testing and simulation-to-test correlation.

Responsibilities

• Perform thermo-mechanical simulations: static, dynamic, vibration, shock, fatigue.
• Model and simulate pyrotechnic phenomena: explosions, pressure, fragmentation, and fluid–structure interaction, as required.
• Define assumptions, models, boundary conditions, and acceptance criteria.
• Analyze and interpret simulation results.
• Provide recommendations for design and product improvements.
• Correlate numerical results with experimental test data.
• Support the planning and preparation of test campaigns.
• Prepare calculation notes, simulation reports, and related technical documentation.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of simulation methods and tools.
• Ensure the traceability and quality of models and results.

Skills

Structural mechanics

Finite element analysis

Explicit simulation

Pyrotechnic/ballistic phenomena

Results interpretation

Cross-functional communication

Tools

LS-DYNA

Abaqus

ANSYS

Job description

About Alta Ares

Alta Ares is an air defense Neoprime. We build AI-guided interceptors to counter drones and cruise missiles, along with the software platform that powers them.

Our customers are NATO-aligned militaries and defense institutions, and our systems are regularly deployed during live exercises and operational demonstrations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Founded in 2024, we have grown to 90 people, raised over $60M, and increased revenue 40× this year. We are now entering a new phase of international expansion, industrial scaling, fundraising, and product development.

Role & Mission

• Perform thermo-mechanical simulations: static, dynamic, vibration, shock, fatigue, etc.

• Model and simulate pyrotechnic phenomena: explosions, pressure, fragmentation, and fluid–structure interaction, as required.

• Define assumptions, models, boundary conditions, and acceptance criteria.

• Analyze and interpret simulation results.

• Provide recommendations for design and product improvements.

• Correlate numerical results with experimental test data.

• Support the planning and preparation of test campaigns.

• Prepare calculation notes, simulation reports, and related technical documentation.

• Contribute to the development and improvement of simulation methods and tools.

• Ensure the traceability and quality of models and results.

Key Interfaces

• Mechanical Design Engineering

• Systems Engineering

• Testing and Validation Teams

• Manufacturing Engineering / Production

• Quality and Configuration Management

Experience

• Strong knowledge of structural mechanics and dynamics.

• Knowledge of finite element analysis methods.

• Experience with explicit simulation and rapid transient phenomena.

• Knowledge of pyrotechnic and/or ballistic phenomena.

• Proficiency in one or more simulation tools: LS-DYNA, Abaqus, ANSYS, or equivalent.

• Ability to analyze complex results and translate them into technical recommendations.

• Knowledge of mechanical testing and simulation-to-test correlation.

Skills & Qualities

• Hands-on engineer comfortable working with hardware and testing activities

• Able to independently drive integration and qualification campaigns

• Rigorous approach to safety, documentation, and regulatory compliance

• Strong cross-functional communication and coordination skills

• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to operate autonomously in a fast-growing company

• High integrity and professionalism in handling sensitive defense technologies