Satellite Mechanical Systems Engineer

Darwin Space are currently hiring for a Satellite Mechanical Systems Engineer in Toulouse.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain detailed requirements, architecture, and interface documents for the mechanical subsystem
• Design and evaluate the spacecraft mechanical architecture aligned with mission parameters
• Conduct comprehensive mass budgeting and sizing analyses for all mission phases, including contingency planning
• Model, simulate, and perform worst-case scenario analyses to validate system resilience during launch and rendezvous operations
• Select and qualify components suitable for space environments, considering reliability, assembly constraints and thermal factors
• Support manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing activities for the mechanical subsystem
• Lead subsystem and system-level testing, including functional, thermal vacuum, and vibration assessments
• Facilitate design reviews (Preliminary Design Review, Critical Design Review, Test Readiness Review) and ensure system readiness
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize system efficiencies and perform trade‑off studies
• Participate in integration and launch support, troubleshooting as needed

Essential Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 5+ years’ experience in spacecraft or satellite mechanical system engineering, with at least one smallsat mission successfully delivered to orbit
• Robust knowledge of spacecraft mechanical systems and mechanisms, as well as vibration environments
• Proven experience with mass budgeting, system modelling, and simulation tools
• Familiarity with space-qualified components and thermal/ radiation design considerations
• Practical experience in integration and testing within cleanroom environments
• Strong problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to work effectively within agile, cross-disciplinary teams
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with suppliers, subsystem teams, and mission stakeholders

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Understanding of satellite system trade-offs and mission optimisation strategies
• Experience with space authorities’ standards and certification processes
• Experience with CNES IDM-CIC tool