Mechanisms Design Engineer

About the role

Thales Alenia Space is seeking a Mechanisms Design Engineer to lead the definition of mechanism solutions for space‑mission vehicles. The role involves working with both metallic and composite materials to create mass‑efficient, high‑performance mechanisms that can survive mission loads such as re‑entry and landing impacts.

Key responsibilities

• Design spacecraft mechanisms for manned and unmanned modules and satellites, including sizing of parts and interfaces.
• Select components (springs, dampers, gearboxes, levers) and define associated materials, surface treatments, and tolerances.
• Perform hand calculations, preliminary multibody analysis, and FEM analysis to validate designs.
• Develop and review CAD models and detailed drawings.
• Conduct multibody modeling using ADAMS or Motion View/Motion Solver.
• Support procurement by defining technical requirements for outsourced products.
• Prepare design and analysis reports, and contribute to verification and testing plans.
• Assist in static, kinematic, and dynamic testing, and evaluate test results.
• Coach junior engineers and promote skill development within the team.

Required profile

• Strong background in aerospace mechanism design, with experience on metallic and composite structures.
• Ability to translate subsystem requirements into detailed mechanism solutions.
• Proficiency in multibody dynamics and structural analysis.
• Experience supporting test articles, breadboards, and verification activities.
• Capability to work collaboratively with procurement and manufacturing partners.

Required skills

• ADAMS (multibody analysis)
• Motion View / Motion Solver
• Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis
• CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Creo)
• MATLAB (including Simulink for control law modeling)
• Hand calculation techniques for mechanism sizing
• Material selection for aerospace applications

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on cutting‑edge space missions.
• Collaboration with a global team of experts.
• Professional development and mentorship programs.