Overview

A Mechatronics Engineer for the AcubeSAT project is responsible for integrating mechanical, electronic, fluidic and optical systems across multiple subsystems of the nanosatellite. This role focuses on bridging disciplines together to develop solutions for the complex in-house Payload (including imaging, fluidics and lab-on-a-chip technologies) as well as for the rest of the satellite system. The Mechatronics Engineer will play a crucial role in creating test setups (e.g. microarraying robots, imaging setups), and conducting subsystem and system-level testing to ensure all integrated components function properly in the space environment.

AcubeSAT is a student-led effort at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Our goal is to study, develop, build and fly our very own satellite. If you have a working spirit, time to spend, patience and you are also searching for a fun and rewarding activity along your studies, we are excited to meet you.

Position Description

A Mechatronics Engineer is expected to:

  • Design and integrate mechanical and electrical interfaces between the satellite’s structural parts and electronic systems
  • Develop assembly procedures and tooling for the complex biological payload integration and testing
  • Perform structural analysis for system-level testing configurations
  • Troubleshoot issues at the interfaces between mechanical, electrical, and software systems
  • Optimize the integration of sensors, actuators, and control systems throughout the satellite
  • Support the development and testing of deployment mechanisms

Preferred Skills

  • Familiarity with CAD software for mechanical design with a strong foundation in mechanical engineering and electronics
  • Understanding of basic electronic circuit design and PCB layout
  • Basic experience with microcontroller programming and hardware interfaces
  • Understanding of structural mechanics and basic structural analysis
  • Experience with embedded systems and control algorithm implementation
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment under pressure
  • Capable of working well in multidisciplinary groups of peers
  • Capable of navigating previously unknown fields
  • A strong sense of commitment and responsibility

Optional Skills

  • Demonstrated ability to prototype, iterate, and test experimental setups
  • Experience with system integration and testing of complex assemblies
  • Experience with addititive (e.g. 3D printing) and subtractive (e.g. CNC) manufacturing techniques
  • Experience with control system testing
  • Familiarity with optical engineering and optical system design

Notes:

If you don’t have a traditional background, don’t worry—some of our ideal candidates don’t either. What matters is your knack for creative problem-solving, hands-on experience in design and manufacturing, and an understanding of the constraints and possibilities of unconventional setups.

Tell us about something you’ve hacked! Whether it’s building a DIY centrifuge, making ice cream with liquid nitrogen, or repurposing everyday materials for a clever fix, we want to see how you think outside the box and make things work.

Click here to submit your application