Mechanical Engineer - Prototyping Specialist (M/F)

Mechanical Engineer - Prototyping Specialist (M/F)
Location: Cluses, France

INAUTALENT is supporting the International Space Federation (ISF), a pioneering R&D organization based in Cluses (French Alps), in strengthening its team.

ISF is at the forefront of research on gravity-control propulsion and quantum-vacuum energy, aiming at clean and sustainable energy solutions. Through international academic partnerships, ISF pushes the boundaries of fundamental physics to transform energy production and transportation while addressing global ecological challenges.

The organization operates at the intersection of relativity and quantum mechanics, exploring technologies that could redefine our understanding of the universe. Its mission: turning bold scientific concepts into tangible technologies capable of changing the world.

Job Description

To accelerate its experimental developments, ISF is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineer and Prototyping Specialist capable of independently transforming early-stage concepts into fully functional, iterated hardware systems.

This role is suited for an engineer who designs, builds, tests, and refines mechanisms with their own hands — someone who thrives in a workshop environment and wants to see ideas come to life in real time.

You will own the complete mechanical prototyping cycle: concept exploration, 3D design, machining, additive manufacturing, assembly, testing, and iterative improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Mechanical Design & Concept Development

• Design parts and assemblies in 3D CAD (Fusion 360 preferred; FreeCAD acceptable).
• Translate high-level research needs into practical mechanical concepts.
• Evaluate feasibility, challenge requirements, and propose simple, robust mechanical solutions.
• Produce detailed technical drawings and documentation.
  Perform light simulations (statics, kinematics, FEA basics) when needed.
  

Hands-On Prototyping & Fabrication

• Manufacture mechanical parts in-house:
• High-performance FDM 3D printing (Bambu Lab systems).
• Precision machining of aluminum, steel, stainless steel, and engineering plastics.
• Perform fitting, finishing, and manual adjustments (manual mills, lathes, hand tools).
• Assemble, test, measure, and iterate quickly toward prototype validation.

Testing, Validation & Documentation

• Conduct performance tests on mechanical prototypes.
• Analyze results, identify improvements, and iterate efficiently.
• Document design decisions, prototype builds, testing protocols, and outcomes.
  

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with physicists, experimental researchers, and electronics/RF teams.
• Support ongoing experiments by providing custom mechanical hardware.
• Participate in exploratory research projects connecting advanced physics with practical mechanisms.

Mechanical Engineering Expertise

• Minimum 10 years post-graduation in mechanical design AND hands-on manufacturing of prototypes.
• Strong background in innovation-driven environments: robotics, motorsport, special machines, R&D labs, or advanced maker culture.
  

Must-Have Technical Skills

• Advanced 3D CAD proficiency (Fusion 360 strongly preferred).
• Precision machining of metals with tight tolerances.
• High-level FDM 3D printing (Bambu Lab) including profile optimization.
• Extensive workshop skills: milling, turning, fitting, hand tools, and metrology (micrometers, calipers, height gauges).
• Ability to read, create, and apply functional tolerancing and GD&T standards.
  

Personal Attributes

• A true “maker-engineer” mindset: you design and build.
• Strong pragmatism and problem-solving approach (“make it work, make it strong”).
• Organized, safety-driven, and meticulous in workshop environments.
• Clear communicator with the ability to justify technical choices.
• Curious, proactive, and passionate about learning new techniques.
  

• Competitive salary.

• Comprehensive health insurance fully covered (employee + children).
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Access to top-tier equipment (new DMU 50, multiple Bambu Lab X1C, fully equipped workshop).
• Significant opportunities for rapid career development (lead mechanical engineer, product industrialization, project management).
• The chance to build world-first experimental devices based on groundbreaking physics concepts.