Head of Mechanical Systems - New Aircraft Program

Permanent contract
Location - Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

iO Associates is currently partnered with an aerospace client that is seeking a French-speaking Head of Mechanical Systems to lead the design, development, integration, and validation of mechanical systems for a brand new aircraft program. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of aviation from the ground up.

Requirements:

12-15+ years in aerospace mechanical systems engineering, with proven leadership in complex projects, ideally with the following systems: landing gear, environmental control systems, hydraulics/pneumatics, actuators etc.
B2 level or above in French, fluency in English
Proficiency in CATIA, SolidWorks, ANSYS; strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science.

Responsibilities:

Provide technical and strategic leadership for mechanical systems engineering, including landing gear, hydraulics, pneumatics, actuators, and environmental control systems.
Oversee design, analysis, and certification processes to meet stringent performance, safety, and regulatory standards (FAA, EASA).
Ensure seamless integration with other aircraft systems and lead rigorous ground and flight testing.
Define scopes, budgets, and timelines while ensuring on-time delivery of milestones.
Mentor and grow a high-performing engineering team, fostering collaboration and innovation.
Act as the primary technical liaison with customers, regulatory bodies, and senior leadership.