Senior Optomechanical Engineer (South Africa)

Simera Sense is a leading provider of Earth observation camera solutions for the global small satellite market. Committed to excellence and innovation, we deliver superior products and services to our worldwide customer base. Our Holdings Company is in Belgium, and our South African company is based in Somerset West, close to all amenities and diverse natural beauty, providing great lifestyle options.

Are you passionate about advancing space technology through precision engineering? We are seeking a Senior Optomechanical Engineer to lead the design, development, and integration of high-accuracy optomechanical systems for space applications. This is an exciting opportunity to combine your technical expertise with innovative problem-solving and collaboration skills, ensuring optimal performance and reliability in some of the most challenging environments.

Job Purpose

Lead the design, development, and integration of high-precision optomechanical systems for space applications, ensuring optimal performance and reliability in challenging environments

Responsibilities

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely and assist in cross-functional collaboration with optomechanical engineers, optomechanical designers, optical designers, thermal engineers, and structural engineers.
• Provide technical support and guidance to team members
• Communicate effectively to resolve issues and ensure project success
• Engage with local and international suppliers and partners to ensure quality and delivery timelines.

Product Design

• Lead the detailed design and development of high-precision optomechanical systems for spaceborne applications
• Develop detailed 3D CAD models and high-tolerance drawings of optomechanical components

Evaluation and Analysis

• Evaluate proposed designs for manufacturability, performance, and reliability
• Perform tolerance and sensitivity analysis and ensure stability over environmental ranges

Integration and Testing

• Oversee the integration of optical and mechanical components to ensure proper alignment and functionality
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans, including environmental testing (thermal, vibration, and shock tests)
• Analyse test and measurement data to validate system performance and make necessary adjustments

Project Management

• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure project milestones are met
• Manage timelines, resources, and documentation for optomechanical activities
• Prepare and present project status reports to stakeholders

Quality Assurance

• Implement quality control procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards
• Conduct inspections and audits of optomechanical systems
• Address and resolve any non-conformances

Documentation and Reporting

• Prepare technical documentation, including design documentation, work instructions, build history documentation, test reports, and customer documentation
• Maintain detailed design and development procedures for optomechanical systems.
• Maintain detailed records of design, assembly, integration, and testing activities
• Ensure all documentation is up-to-date and accessible

Continuous Improvement

• Stay updated with the latest advancements in optomechanical engineering and space industry standards
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices

Required Qualifications

Master’s degree, Mechanical Engineering, Optomechanical Engineering, or a related field

Required Experience

• Master's in Optomechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• 5 - 10 years of experience in mechanical or optomechanical engineering roles, preferably in the space industry
• Extensive experience in designing and developing optomechanical systems, including optical mounts, lenses, mirrors, sensors, and prisms
• Strong ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team, including optical, mechanical, structural, thermal and electrical engineers
• Experience in providing technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and team members
• Proficiency in CAD software
• Experience in developing and operating complex test equipment to validate optomechanical systems
• Hands-on experience with the testing and validation of optical systems, including environmental testing (thermal, vibration, and shock tests)
• Proven track record of managing projects, including budgeting, resource allocation, and timeline management
• Experience in preparing and presenting project status reports to stakeholders
• Familiarity with industry standards and compliance requirements
• Ability to foster a collaborative and innovative work environment

Recommendations

• Ph.D. in Optomechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Experience working in the aerospace or defence industries, particularly with spaceborne optical systems
• Expertise in space-qualified materials and adhesives
• Knowledge of thermal management techniques for optical systems in space environments
• Experience with Siemens Teamcenter and NX software
• Knowledge and experience working in a cleanroom environment
• Familiarity with cleanroom protocols and procedures
• Experience in system engineering, including requirements generation, design integration, and testing
• Ability to implement and manage changes effectively within project timelines

What we offer

The opportunity to work in the fast-growing space industry.

Niche global market for optical payloads for microsatellites.

Cutting-edge technology at your fingertips

A competitive salary

A friendly working environment.

Ready to make an impact?

Apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter.