LEAD MECHANICAL ENGINEER - SATELLITE STRUCTURES & SPACE SYSTEMS

Job Description: Azista Space is a transformative force in the global aerospace sector, uniquely positioned at the intersection of indigenous innovation and industrial scalability. Operating Indias first private-sector satellite mass-production facility in Ahmedabad, Azista Space has bridged the gap between complex engineering and high-volume manufacturing. As a vertically integrated leader, Azista Space provides end-to-end solutions from the precision design of satellite buses and advanced payloads to mission management and communication systems, democratizing the final frontier with cost-effective, high-performance technology for global clientele. Join Azista Space in fueling the future of space exploration. As the Lead Mechanical Engineer Satellite Structures & Space Systems at Azista Space, you will play a mission-critical role in designing and qualifying next-generation low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite platforms. You will own the end-to-end mechanical architecture of spacecraft structures, mechanisms, and deployable systems from concept development through launch qualification and in-orbit deployment. Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver flight-ready systems built for reliability, manufacturability, and space survivability. This role offers exceptional technical ownership and long-term growth in one of Indias fastest-growing space technology companies. Roles & Responsibilities: - Lead the mechanical design and development of satellite bus structures, payload enclosures, chassis, panels, brackets, and deployable systems - Drive end-to-end spacecraft structural architecture from concept design through qualification and launch readiness - Develop high-precision 3D CAD models and production drawings using CATIA V5, SolidWorks, and GD&T best practices - Execute advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using ANSYS Mechanical and NASTRAN for static, modal, random vibration, frequency response, and shock loads - Define and manage spacecraft structural qualification campaigns aligned with ECSS, GEVS, and GSFC standards - Plan, support, and review environmental testing including vibration, acoustic, shock, sine-burst, and thermal-mechanical qualification activities - Own spacecraft mass budget tracking and drive structural optimization initiatives without compromising mission reliability - Design and qualify critical spacecraft mechanisms including HDRMs, hinges, deployment systems, antenna pointing systems, and solar array drive assemblies - Collaborate closely with Thermal, Avionics, Integration, Manufacturing, and Systems Engineering teams to ensure subsystem compatibility and mission success - Create and review mechanical ICDs, assembly procedures, manufacturing documentation, and structural verification reports - Lead Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) activities with internal manufacturing teams and external aerospace suppliers - Participate in technical reviews including PDR, CDR, qualification reviews, and customer/agency design audits - Mentor and guide junior mechanical engineers while helping establish scalable aerospace engineering processes and standards Required Qualifications & Skills: Education - B.E. / B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline - M.Tech / Masters specialization in Structural or Aerospace Engineering preferred Experience - 8+ years of experience in aerospace mechanical engineering, spacecraft structural design, or flight hardware development - Proven experience delivering mechanical systems for satellite, rocket, UAV, or aerospace programs - Hands-on involvement in spacecraft environmental qualification and structural verification activities - Experience working with launch vehicle interfaces such as ISRO PSLV/SSLV or equivalent systems preferred Technical Skills - Expert-level proficiency in CATIA V5, SolidWorks, or equivalent CAD platforms - Strong expertise in FEA tools including ANSYS Mechanical, NASTRAN, and Patran pre/post-processing - Deep understanding of spacecraft structural design methodologies, launch environments, and space qualification workflows - Strong knowledge of ECSS-E-ST-32, GEVS, GSFC, and aerospace structural verification standards - Expertise in GD&T, tolerance analysis, and engineering drawing standards (ISO 1101 / ASME Y14.5) - Familiarity with aerospace-grade materials including Al-7075, CFRP composites, Ti-6Al-4V, and Invar - Experience with PDM/PLM systems, EBOM management, and aerospace manufacturing workflows - Knowledge of fastener locking mechanisms, torque specifications, and spacecraft deployment systems Soft Skills - Strong leadership, stakeholder management, and technical decision-making capabilities - Excellent technical documentation and engineering review skills - Ability to manage multiple high-priority aerospace deliverables in fast-paced R&D environments - Collaborative mindset with strong cross-functional communication abilities - Passion