Head of Structural & Mechanical Systems (f/m/d)
Latitude
Role Description
The Head of Structure & Mechanics Systems leads the engineering team responsible for the design, development, and qualification of the launch vehicle structures, mechanical systems (stage & fairing separation, etc.), thermal control and ground support infrastructure (launch table, supports, etc.). You act as the Technical Authority for your perimeter, driving innovation and ensuring the delivery of safe, reliable, and optimized systems from concept to launch.
Tasks & missions
- Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and grow the Structure, Mechanics, and Thermal engineering team, managing priorities and developing internal expertise.
- Technical Authority: Own the technical architecture, design baselines, and requirements for all flight and ground structures, mechanisms, and thermal systems.
- Development & V&V: Define and drive the technical development logic and the Verification & Validation (V&V) strategy from concept to final qualification.
- Project Execution: Ensure the successful execution of engineering activities and hardware delivery, meeting rigorous quality, cost, and schedule targets.
- Supply Chain Technical Leadership: Act as the Technical Authority during supplier evaluation, selection, and performance oversight for structural and mechanical components.
- Manufacturing & Delivery: Guarantee the qualification of manufacturing and assembly processes, oversee safety/RAMS analyses, and pronounce final System Acceptance.
Qualifications
Education: Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.Certifications/Training
(Nice to have): Formal training in Systems Engineering or familiarity with international space/aerospace or mechanical engineering standards is highly desirable.
Industry Experience: 10 to 15+ years of professional experience in aerospace mechanical or structural engineering, specifically focused on launch vehicles, spacecraft, or critical ground segment structures.
Leadership Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a management or technical leadership role (e.g., Head of Department, Chief Engineer, Lead Systems Engineer).
Track Record: A proven history of successfully taking complex structural or mechanical systems through qualification and into operational use. Flight heritage or active participation in a launch campaign is a strong asset.
