Mechanical Architect

About the Company

Established in 2017, Infinite Orbits is a NewSpace company, based in Toulouse, pushing the boundaries of in-orbit services with cutting-edge spacecraft driven by its own Rendez-Vous solution, an advanced Autonomous Vision-Based Navigation Solution. IO has two generations of missions

• "Orbit Guard" provides Inspection and Space Situational Awareness services in GEO. Our first, OG-1 was launched on 1 May 2023, the second is launching in 2025 and the third third launching in 2026.
• "Endurance" is a docking service capable of extending the life of GEO telecom satellites, by taking over AOCS takeover for 5 years.

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.

What we offer

• The opportunity to be part of an international team transforming the space industry.
• A creative and innovative work environment where ideas turn into reality.
• Competitive salary and benefits.