Overview
The Structural Engineer for the AcubeSAT project leads the hands-on development of the nanosatellite’s physical architecture, with particular emphasis on practical manufacturing solutions. The Structural Engineer not only designs the satellite structure but actively transforms concepts into reality through prototype development, mockup creation, and extensive manufacturing oversight. Working directly with machinists and fabrication specialists, this position ensures that all components can be manufactured to precise specifications while meeting the challenging constraints of space missions. The engineer leads iterative physical testing of structural mockups and develops comprehensive assembly procedures critical for integrating the satellite’s various parts.
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 Structural Engineer is expected to:
- Design manufacturable structural components using 3D CAD software, with direct consideration for machining capabilities and limitations
- Create detailed technical drawings and manufacturing specifications that effectively communicate design intent to machineries
- Develop and physically build structural mockups and prototypes to validate integration concepts before final production
- Oversee the practical assembly of structural components, identifying and resolving assembly and integration challenges
- Perform hands-on testing of structural prototypes to verify functionality and identify practical improvements
- Translate theoretical FEA results into actionable manufacturing modifications
- Design specialized tooling and fixtures required for the assembly of complex payload components
- Develop comprehensive step-by-step assembly procedures with visual documentation
- Prepare a vibration testing setup and execute environmental tests of the satellite
Preferred Skills
- Available to work with a strong sense of commitment and responsibility
- Understanding of manufacturing processes including machining, sheet metal work, and additive manufacturing
- Experience translating CAD designs into practical manufacturing instructions
- Proven ability to communicate effectively with machinists and fabrication specialists
- Hands-on experience building and testing structural prototypes and mockups
- Practical understanding of material selection based on machinability and performance
- Experience with design for assembly and design for manufacturing principles
- Familiarity with workshop tools and basic machining operations
- Ability to interpret and apply FEA results to improve designs
- 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
- Capable of working well with machinists, technicians, and multidisciplinary engineering teams
- Experience with precision assembly of sensitive hardware
- Experience designing custom test fixtures and assembly jigs
- Demonstrated ability to solve manufacturing challenges through creative solutions
- Experience with vibration testing setup and execution
- Background in prototype development for proof-of-concept validation
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