Large Space Structures GmbH

Space Mechanisms Engineer

Large Space Structures GmbH  •  Garching, DE (Onsite)  •  3 months ago
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Job Description

Would you like to work on exciting space projects and be directly involved in the development of space reflectors for different missions? Are you driven by hands-on challenges and precision engineering? Do you want to be part of a diverse, dynamic team that shares your passion for space?

Then LSS is the right place for you!

We are at the forefront of European innovation in deployable antenna reflector technologies, serving both domestic and international markets. We’re now looking for a dedicated and detail-oriented a Space Mechanisms Engineer (m/w/d) to lead the development of high-reliability space mechanisms from concept through qualification and flight.

As a Space Mechanisms Engineer at LSS, you’ll take technical ownership of deployment systems, release devices (HDRM), motor-driven assemblies, latching mechanisms, and precision space hardware in compliance with ECSS standards. This is your chance to work on high-impact space hardware, contribute to groundbreaking missions, and be part of a collaborative, future-focused environment. If you’re ready to combine your technical skills with your passion for space, we invite you to join us and help shape the next generation of space exploration.

Tasks

  • Define mechanism architecture, functional requirements, and verification strategy.
  • Lead and/or perform detailed design including CAD modeling, GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, and controlled manufacturing data packages.
  • Perform or supervise structural and dynamic analyses (static, modal, sine and random vibration, shock) and margin-of-safety assessments per ECSS.
  • Perform motorization analysis, including torque budgets, inertia estimation, power sizing, thermal considerations, and drive margin evaluation according to ECSS-E-ST-33-01.
  • Conduct bearing sizing and lifetime analysis, including load spectra, contact stress evaluation, lubrication strategy, and wear assessment for vacuum and ground operation.
  • Define and justify tribological concepts (lubrication, coatings, friction stability, lifetime).
  • Select and justify space-qualified materials in line with ECSS-Q-ST-70.
  • Define and support qualification and acceptance testing per ECSS-E-ST-32, ECSS-E-ST-33, and ECSS-E-ST-10-03.
  • Support technical reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR, QR) and supplier coordination.

Requirements

  • Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.

  • 5+ years of experience in mechanisms or precision hardware development, ideally for space industry.

  • Strong proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks preferred) and FEA (MSC Nastran, Ansys).

  • Solid understanding of:

  • Launch vibration and shock environments

  • Tribology for vacuum applications

  • Bearing analysis and rotating machinery fundamentals

  • Space materials and processes

  • ECSS compliance and verification logic

  • Familiarity with motors, actuators, release devices (HDRM, pin-pullers), and space sensors (encoders, resolvers, limit switches).

Nice To have

  • Mechatronics integration experience (mechanical–electrical interface).
  • Basic control systems understanding (feedback loops, stability, actuator control).
  • Experience with multibody dynamics (MBD), kinematic modeling, and deployment simulations.
  • Knowledge of motor drive electronics and closed-loop actuation systems.

Benefits

  • A challenging, fast-paced position at the forefront of space technology.
  • Scope for individual development and growth in a growing multicultural team of discipline experts.
  • Flexible working hours with the core time.
  • A relaxed working environment with a flat hierarchy combined with a motivated and open team.
  • Casual dress code.
  • Open ear for all kinds of concerns.
Large Space Structures GmbH

About Large Space Structures GmbH

Founded in 2012 by experts from the Technical University of Munich (TUM) in Germany, Large Space Structures (LSS) GmbH provides a unique expertise in the creation of space Large Deployable Reflectors #LDR and other large space lightweight structures, as well as in-orbit mechanically reconfigurable reflectors. Building on long-term experience working on these products at different institutes of the Technical University of Munich and the Georgian Technical University (GTU), LSS has created a strong and competitive base in this field. Working experience with the European Space Agency and European industrial partners in different projects is a valuable asset of our staff in developing large deployable reflector technologies in cooperation with other European companies primarily for the European market needs.

Our expertise comprises

• Space Large Deployable Reflectors (#LDR), membrane direct radiating arrays, reflectarrays, large optical membrane telescopes, in-orbit mechanically reconfigurable surface reflectors, among others

• Design, analysis, manufacturing and testing of new composite and membrane materials and lightweight structures

• Multi-functional, smart, adaptive, morphing materials and structures

Patents & patent applications on several of the above technologies

Industry
Aviation & Aerospace
Company Size
51-200 employees
Headquarters
Garching bei München, DE
Year Founded
2012
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