Early Career Mechanical Engineer - Space Structures

About the role

Airbus Defence and Space is looking for an early career mechanical engineer in Getafe to work on the mechanical analysis and testing of space structures and systems. The ideal candidate brings initial professional experience in the mechanical design and verification of space components (satellites, instruments, structure and mechanisms) and wants to apply and further develop their academic and practical expertise.

Key responsibilities

• Identify and understand the mechanical requirements, especially the mechanical environments, to define the analyses needed for design verification and validation.
• Support static and dynamic structural analyses for space structures and systems, checking results manually for plausibility.
• Carry out mechanical performance analyses for high-precision instruments and structures for space applications.
• Contribute to the simulation, oversight and post-test assessment of static tests and vibration tests of satellites and their sub-components.
• Develop mathematical structural models using FEA, applying Hyperworks and NASTRAN, with focus on structural idealization and model validation.
• Perform strength verification of joining elements according to ESA standards.
• Help build internal tools for workflow optimisation and for processing analytical and test data.
• Write and maintain documentation of mathematical models, analytical and test outcomes and compliance with requirements.

Required profile

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.
• Prior professional experience in the design and verification of aerospace structures is highly preferred.
• Fluency in English and Spanish (written and spoken) is mandatory.
• Proactive, structured work style, able to work independently and in a team, with excellent communication skills.

Required skills

• Advanced proficiency in static and dynamic structural analysis (FEM) and manual calculation methods.
• Proficiency in Nastran and Hyperworks.
• Programming in Matlab, Python, VBA or C++ is desirable.
• Solid understanding of space-specific requirements; experience with composite structure design and calculation is a plus.