AIT Mechanical Operator – SWISSto12
SWISSto12 is one of the world’s fastest‑growing aerospace companies, evolving from its pioneering use of 3D printing technologies for high‑performance radio‑frequency (RF) products and applications to recently announcing the manufacture of entire geostationary telecom satellites, called HummingSat, that define a new category in space. HummingSat is the world’s first commercial GEO SmallSat developed in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA). Its uniquely compact size combined with highly capable telecom payloads allows operators to deploy a cost‑efficient, compact, and agile asset without sacrificing performance or security. SWISSto12 is also a leading provider of RF products and sub‑systems for satellite communication and remote‑sensing applications. The company’s patented 3D printing technologies and associated product designs are unique to deliver lightweight, compact, highly performing, and competitive RF products.
This position is a unique opportunity to contribute to the hands‑on assembly and integration of a cutting‑edge satellite. As an AIT Mechanical Operator, you will be part of a skilled and multidisciplinary team responsible for the mechanical build‑up of spacecraft structures and subsystems. You will perform key integration tasks such as structural assembly, torqueing, alignment, hardware installation, and mechanical verification, ensuring safety, cleanliness, and precision across all operations.
Job Requirements
* Technical diploma or equivalent hands‑on experience in mechanical integration or aerospace assembly.
* Basic knowledge of mechanical systems, tooling, and high‑reliability fastening techniques.
* Experience with torque tools, mechanical drawings, and cleanroom protocols.
* Ability to execute integration tasks precisely and follow step‑by‑step procedures.
* Understanding of FOD and contamination control requirements in aerospace environments.
* Previous experience with satellite mechanical integration or cleanroom assembly.
* Familiarity with ECSS standards, bonding operations, and MGSE handling.
* French or English speaking; both preferred.
* Reliable, careful, and precise execution of mechanical tasks.
* Team spirit and discipline in a high‑standards environment.
* Responsiveness and clear communication in case of doubt or anomaly.
* Commitment to quality, safety, and documentation.
* Pride in contributing to a high‑technology space mission.
Job Responsibilities
* Perform mechanical integration tasks such as component mounting, bracket installation, strut assembly, and application of bonding materials.
* Handle torque tools and alignment fixtures following work instructions and torque specs.
* Install thermal hardware, sat pads, structural supports, fasteners, grounding elements, and mechanical interfaces.
* Apply safety and contamination control rules appropriate to high‑reliability space hardware.
* Follow cleanroom procedures including gowning, cleanliness, FOD control, and tool handling.
* Respect lifting operations, hardware protections, and MGSE use in collaboration with support teams.
* Accurately complete work orders, logs, torque records, and checklists as required.
* Maintain batch and serial number traceability of parts and tools used.
* Provide feedback to operator leaders and engineers regarding unclear or outdated work instructions.
* Work under the supervision of mechanical operator leaders and AIT engineers.
* Communicate clearly when instructions are unclear or hardware issues are observed.
* Maintain discipline, professionalism, and collaboration during integration activities.
Job Benefits
Further details to be shared by our recruitment team.
More about SWISSto12: SWISSto12 has successfully established contracts with Intelsat, Inmarsat, Astrum Mobile and ESA for HummingSat as well as contracts for their RF product line in Europe, and the US with prominent partners and customers such as Thales, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, SES and the ESA. SWISSto12 is a spin‑off from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), is privately owned and backed by prominent Swiss and European investors. SWISSto12 is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, and operates a US and European subsidiaries in Foster City, California. The company is well funded for its near and mid‑term developments and backed by a solid customer revenue stream.
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