Senior Mechanical Engineer

About

Our client is a Parisian SME operating in the Defense sector. The company designs and manufactures tracking systems and optronic systems for the naval domain. The devices are primarily intended to equip submarines. The company is experiencing strong growth following the award of numerous contracts in France and abroad. The mechanical entity is managed by one of the founders who will retire in 2026. The company is looking to replace him with an experienced Mechanical Engineer who will evolve into the role of "Head of Mechanical Design Office" upon the founder's retirement (2026). The nature of the business requires "Confidential Defense" clearance. The company is located south of Paris.

Role

The Senior Mechanical Engineer will be involved in the design of micro-mechanical mechanisms that constitute the optronic masts. These integrate stabilization, aiming, and precision motorization functions. The devices combine precision mechanics, optical sensors, and embedded electronics in highly constrained environments (pressure, temperature, salinity, etc.). You will be the central player in R&D activities and will design compact, robust, and high-performance mechanical architectures, in close collaboration with electronics and software engineers. The objective is to ensure optimal integration and overall system performance. You will be involved in the entire development cycle, from design to prototype validation, with a direct impact on the products developed and deployed. Upon the founder's retirement, you will take on the role of Head of the Mechanical Design Office. You will report directly to the Management team and will be responsible for the following:

Responsibilities

1. Mechanical and Micro-Mechanical Design

   • Design of mechanical and micro-mechanical systems
   • Design of motorized mechanisms
   • Kinematic study of systems
   • Integration of bearings and precision mechanical components
   • Design under space constraints and compact design

2. Sizing and Justification

   • Definition of tolerancing and dimension chains
   • Management of mechanical fits and functional clearances
   • Mechanical sizing and material strength calculations
   • Consideration of environmental constraints: vibration, sealing, thermal, etc.

3. Mechatronic Integration

   • Mechanical integration with embedded electronic systems
   • Integration of optical sensors and aiming systems
   • Close collaboration with electronics and software engineers
   • Optimization of mechanical-electronic integration to ensure overall performance

4. Prototyping and Industrialization

   • 3D design using CAD (SolidWorks, TopSolid, or equivalent)
   • Production and assembly of prototypes
   • Functional validation and system improvement
   • Manufacturing follow-up with suppliers

Qualifications

• Education: Engineering/Doctorate degree with a specialization in Mechanical Engineering (affinity for micro-mechanics).
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in the design of complex mechanical systems. Experience in team management would be appreciated.
• Technologies/Skills:
  • Mechanical design of complex multi-technical systems (mechatronics, optronics, etc.)
  • Proficiency in CAD software (Solidworks, Topsolid, or equivalent, etc.)
  • Experience in supervising Design Office teams
  • Knowledge of 3D printing for prototype realization
  • Knowledge of materials such as titanium, aluminum, stainless steel, and associated machining processes.
• Personal Attributes:
  • Rigor, analytical skills, and solid technical expertise
  • Ability to work in a team and collaborate with diverse profiles
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills in French and English.