Mechanical Design Engineer (Optomechanical Engineer)

We are fast becoming a leading mid to high-resolution earth observation camera supplier for CubeSats and small satellites. Our optical payload products aim to offer complete space imaging solutions for small satellites with plans to expand. We are a fast-growing, dynamic team of enthusiastic engineers that supplies space and satellite companies from around the globe. Our company is based in Somerset West, close to all amenities and diverse natural beauty, providing great lifestyle options.

The successful candidate will be immersed in a dynamic, collaborative, and technically challenging environment. This role offers the chance to push the limits of what is possible with optical payloads in the CubeSat domain. Extensive on-the-job training will be provided.

Job Purpose:

Assist with the design and integration of electro-optical imaging systems for use in space-borne applications such as CubeSats.

Key Performance Areas and Responsibilities:

• Lead the detailed design and development of high precision optomechanical systems
• Involve in all stages of the mechanical design cycle, including designing, developing and improving systems and QA processes as required
• Generate design requirements
• Perform the 3D CAD of optomechanical systems, mechanical components and optical elements
• Create detailed, high tolerance optical and optomechanical drawings
• Generate technical design documentation, test protocols and test reports
• Research and selecting COTS/custom materials and components as required by the design
• Manage the manufacturing of the optomechanical systems
• Design the assembly and integration processes for the designed optomechanical systems
• Assist with the assembly, integration and testing of designed optomechanical systems to qualify newly developed systems
• Generate integration documentation, assembly instructions, BOM’s for newly developed systems before handing them over to the production team
• Providing technical support to the production, sales and marketing team as required
• Completing general tasks related to mechanical engineering as required

Required Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of mechanical engineering experience
• Have a strong mechanical aptitude

Required Technical Competencies:

• Experienced in designing optics and optomechanics, or as a minimum, in designing precision mechanics.
• Experience guiding a conceptual design through the development phases from requirements generation through to production, qualification and testing
• Experience working with 3D CAD software. (Knowledge of Siemens Teamcenter and NX software is advantageous)
• Highly proficient in generating technical documentation
• Understanding of finite element analysis and the ability to interpret results for design improvement
• Ability to merge numerous multi-physics design requirements into a single instrument

Required Qualification:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optomechanical Engineering or related

Recommendations:

• Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optomechanical Engineering or related
• Minimum of 10 years of mechanical engineering experience will be advantageous
• Knowledge and experience of electro-optical payload design is advantageous.
• Knowledge of Siemens Teamcenter and NX software is advantageous
• Knowledge and experience working in a cleanroom environment is advantageous
• Previous experience designing optomechanical systems or precision mechanics is beneficial

What we offer:

• The opportunity to work in the fast-growing space industry
• Niche global market for optical payloads for microsatellites
• Cutting-edge technology at your fingertips
• A competitive salary
• A friendly working environment with free coffee and regular company braai’s.