Structures Engineer

Structures Engineer in the Structures Section (TEC-MSS), Structures, Mechanisms and Materials Division, Mechanical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality. The Structures Section provides functional support to ESA projects and carries out technological research and development (R&D) on all aspects of spacecraft and launcher structures, from load derivation and structural sizing to functional space structure design and testing. The Section’s work covers the full cycle of structural engineering, from mission requirements and verification philosophy to advanced test campaigns and the development of next-generation structures. In addition, the Section drives innovation in structural digital twins, advanced manufacturing, virtual testing and sustainable materials, ensuring Europe remains at the forefront of space structural technologies. You will report to the Head of Section. Within the technical fields described above, your main tasks and responsibilities will include: participating in feasibility studies for the preparation of specifications and analysis of industrial proposals; providing functional support to approved spacecraft and payload projects and conceptual and feasibility studies in relation to all aspects of mechanical systems and configuration, structural design, static and dynamic analyses, fracture control and mechanical testing; identifying critical development problems and assisting in their resolution, including the evaluation of complete mechanical systems; performing structural analyses as required to support the development of structure subsystems; participating in major reviews of spacecraft, launchers and payloads; establishing and evaluating specifications for the development and qualification of spacecraft system and subsystem structures with respect to defining requirements for environment-induced loads, model development philosophy and relevant verification methods; participating in the definition and execution of Agency standards and technology R&D programmes with special emphasis on mechanical system and configuration aspects, lightweight structures, structural dynamics and advanced structural material technologies; supporting activities relating to structural integrity, as well as the evaluation of loads during the lifetime of the structures and their impact on overall verification, including the establishment of specifications, design, analysis, inspection and testing; supporting concurrent design activities in relation to mechanical system aspects; monitoring applicable scientific and technological trends and maintaining state-of-the-art expertise. Your duties may also include performing other activities within your field of competence.