Senior Solar Array Mechanical Engineer

iO Associates; Paris; Sur place; EUR 90 000 - 130 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

Our Client is seeking a Senior Solar Array Mechanical Engineer to advance ultra-light deployable solar arrays for future space missions. You will lead subsystems from conception to flight, working with experienced aerospace engineers in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires a minimum of 5 years in spacecraft mechanical design, with exposure to solar arrays or deployable panels, and proficiency in CAD tools such as CATIA or Siemens NX. Multilingual skills are a plus in our diverse team.

Qualifications

• Experience in mechanical design for spacecraft hardware.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (CATIA, Siemens NX) and FEA software.

Responsabilités

• Lead the mechanical design, development, and qualification of ultra-light deployable solar array subsystems.
• Perform design trade-offs covering structure, thermal, and deployment mechanisms.
• Oversee prototype assembly, deployment tests, and system integration.

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.