Research Assistant Mechanical Aerospace Engineer

About the role

We are looking for a Mechanical/Aerospace Engineer to join a one‑year university CubeSat mission. The position involves supporting the design, analysis, and hands‑on assembly of a small satellite, working closely with subsystem teams and student engineers.

Key responsibilities

• Perform thermal and structural (finite‑element) analyses of the spacecraft.
• Create 3D CAD models and detailed engineering drawings.
• Lead Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) activities, ensuring mechanical interfaces are robust and manufacturable.
• Collaborate with subsystem teams, document designs, and prepare the satellite for environmental testing and flight.
• Support lab and clean‑room operations during assembly and testing phases.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and production of engineering drawings.
• Experience with thermal and structural/finite‑element analysis for aerospace or precision mechanical systems.
• Knowledge of materials, fasteners, tolerances, manufacturing processes, and design‑for‑assembly principles.
• Comfortable working in a laboratory or clean‑room environment and supporting hands‑on satellite assembly.

Required skills

• 3D CAD modeling
• Engineering drawing creation
• Thermal analysis
• Structural analysis
• Finite‑element analysis (FEA)
• ANSYS or equivalent analysis tools
• NASTRAN or equivalent analysis tools
• Materials selection and fastener knowledge
• Manufacturing processes and design‑for‑assembly
• Lab/clean‑room operations
• Satellite assembly, integration and testing
• Vibration and thermal‑vacuum testing familiarity
• Test procedure development and technical report writing