Senior Solar Array Mechanical Engineer

iO Associates; Paris; Sur place; EUR 70 000 - 110 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

Our Client is a space-focused company seeking a Senior Solar Array Mechanical Engineer to lead the mechanical design of ultra-light deployable solar arrays for future missions. You will steer subsystems from concept to flight and work with a team of experienced aerospace professionals.

The role requires deep knowledge of lightweight structures, deployment mechanisms, and photovoltaic integration, with CAD (CATIA/Siemens NX) and FEA proficiency.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years' practical experience in spacecraft or launch vehicle mechanical design.
• Experience with solar array or deployable panel structures.
• Proven track record from concept to deployment in orbit or at launch site.
• Autonomy in delivering reliable, lightweight systems for harsh environments.

Responsabilités

• Lead mechanical design, development, and qualification of deployable solar arrays.
• Perform design trade-offs covering structural, thermal, and deployment aspects.
• Hands-on with hardware prototype assembly, testing, and integration.
• Develop verification, validation, and integration strategies for spaceflight.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to meet mass and volume constraints.
• Document design processes and testing per aerospace standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership.

Connaissances

Solar array design

Aerospace experience

Mechanical design

Leadership

Mentoring

Deployment mechanisms

Prototyping

Thermal analysis

Strong communication

Autonomy

Outils

CATIA

Siemens NX

FEA tools

Description du poste

Our Client is an innovative leader operating within the space industry, specialising in the design and development of next-generation power systems for small satellites. Known for their cutting-edge solutions and rapid development culture, they foster a collaborative environment where engineering excellence and ownership are central to their success. The company prides itself on a diverse, international team that values innovation, agility, and continuous learning, providing an inspiring workplace that makes a meaningful impact on space exploration and sustainable space initiatives.

Role Summary:

To support their ambitious growth objectives, Our Client is seeking a talented Senior Solar Array Mechanical Engineer. This strategic appointment will be pivotal in advancing the mechanical design of ultra-light deployable solar arrays, directly contributing to the company's evolving space hardware portfolio. The role offers a rare opportunity to lead critical subsystems from conception through to flight, working alongside a team of seasoned aerospace engineers and former space industry veterans. This position is integral to delivering reliable, lightweight, and high-performance solar power solutions for future space missions.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the mechanical design, development, and qualification of key subsystems for ultra-light deployable solar arrays, overseeing the architecture from initial concept to mass production.
• Perform design trade-offs and analyses covering structural integrity, thermal management, and deployment mechanisms.
• Hands-on engagement with hardware prototype assembly, deployment testing, and system integration activities.
• Develop and implement verification, validation, and integration strategies that ensure subsystem robustness for launch and space environments.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure subsystem compatibility and meet strict mass and volume constraints.
• Document design processes and testing procedures adhering to aerospace standards.
• Mentor junior engineers, fostering technical development and knowledge sharing within the team.
• Minimum of 5 years' practical experience in spacecraft or launch vehicle mechanical design, with demonstrable exposure to solar array or deployable panel structures.
• Proven track record of taking hardware through every development phase, from initial concept to operational deployment in orbit or launch pad.
• Expertise in lightweight structural design, deployable mechanisms, and integration of photovoltaic panels.
• Proficient in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX) and FEA tools, with the ability to perform and interpret hand calculations for validation.
• Strong analytical mindset, proactive approach, and excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Autonomy in managing responsibilities, with a record of delivering reliable systems suited for harsh environments.
• Experience mentoring junior engineers and providing technical leadership within aerospace projects.
• Familiarity with space standards and testing protocols for hardware qualification.
• Knowledge of thermal analysis and kinematic mechanisms related to deployable systems.
• Experience working within a fast-paced, innovative start-up environment.
• Multilingual abilities are appreciated but not essential.

If you are an experienced aerospace engineer passionate about pioneering lightweight solar solutions and ready to make a tangible impact on space exploration, we want to hear from you. Join our Client's dynamic team and help shape the future of space technology!