Fracture Control Engineer

Thales Alenia Space Fracture Control Engineers define the project solutions, as concerns the structure, for the manned pressurized structures and unmanned (including re-entry vehicles) aerospace missions. These solutions must guarantee that the component is able to withstand the launch and mission loads, and the possible re-entry and impact loads, as well.

For manned missions and for reusable spacecraft structural integrity and life verification is performed. This activity allow to reduce the risk of failure due to crack initiation and propagation due to cyclic load experienced during the mission life.

The activity scenario is extremely broad and varied, they includes primary and secondary structures, pressure vessels, pressurized structures, composite and non-metallic material, glass and ceramic.

The main task involving Fracture Control includes

• the preparation of a Fracture Control Plan at the beginning of the program
• the identification of Fracture Critical Items during all the design phase
• the definition of the verification approach (safe life, fail safe , low risk)
• the definition of loads exceedance for fatigue load spectrum preparation
• the detailed fatigue and fracture mechanics analysis
• the definition of material characterization test ( fracture toughness , crack growth and stress corrosion).
• the definition of NDI to be performed on the components (dye penetrant , ultrasonic and eddy current).
• The definition of defect acceptability for welds and composite material
• The support to the Fracture Control board for any discussion or alternative approach selected

The activity allows to acquire and to increase the competences in the execution of fatigue and fracture mechanics analysis, and in the support of structural tests, NDI solution and management of Waiver and NCR.

Knowledge of ESA and NASA standard for human spaceflight is considered essential.

Key duties

Design and analysis of spacecraft structures for manned and non-manned modules and satellites, that include:

• Finite Element Modelling (static e dynamic) with use of FEMAP, Patran o Hypermesh pre and post;
• Structural analysis (e.g. fail safe, low risk) based on FEM (Nastran, Ansys, Radioss);
• Detailed verification through structural analysis: fatigue and fracture mechanics either with use on hand calculation methodology or using NASGRO/ESACRACK Code;
• Reporting (Fracture Analysis and test report, fracture control plan, NDI plan, Fracture critical Item list).

Skills , experience and qualifications required

It is a plus at least 5 years of experience on the requested discipline

• Experience working in Structural or Mechanical Engineering or Industrial one for structures and mechanical systems.
• Full comprehensive capability of Windows Office package;
• Knowledge of damage tolerance standard in aerospace (NASA, ESA and other agencies)
• Deep knowledge of Space Station System standards for Human flight missions
• Material and process metallic and non-metallic technologies extensive knowledge
• Mechanical Engineering Knowledge and Expertise;
• Basic knowledge of CAD and CAM processes and capabilities;
• Manufacturing drawing readings and knowledge;
• Capability of using NASGRO/ESACRACK codes
• Capability of using Nastran/Patran; ANSYS; Hyper-works; Femap
• Good attitude towards analysis, synthesis and problem solving
• Excellent knowledge of English language (spoken and written)
• Italian language knowledge will be considered additional asset.
• Available to work in shifts if requested by the program
• Good attitude towards teaming and multi-disciplinary approaches.
• Good attitude towards negotiations with Space Agencies and Subcontractors
• Available to support frequent travels and colocations abroad

Level of Instruction:

• Master Degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering.
• Master or specific courses in Mechanical Design.

At Thales Alenia Space we provide CAREERS and not only jobs. With Thales Alenia Space employing around 8,900 employees in 10 countries with 17 sites in Europe and a plant in the US, our mobility policy enables employees each year to develop their careers at home and abroad. Thales Alenia Space sees space as a new horizon, helping to build a better, more sustainable life on Earth #SpaceForLife. Great journeys start here, apply now!