Mechanical Design Engineer

ANAVIA is a Swiss aerospace company and global market leader in the development and manufacture of advanced unmanned vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft systems with a maximum take-off weight of up to 1,150 kg. Our dual-use helicopter platforms and sensors support a wide range of missions, including intelligence and surveillance (ISR), infrastructure inspection, cargo, and other critical operations.

Driven by a multinational and disciplinary team of highly skilled engineers in mechatronics, avionics, composites, software, flight testing, and industry specialists in marketing, manufacturing, flight operations and service, ANAVIA manages the entire product lifecycle in-house - from concept and design through certification, production, and global customer support.

Headquartered in Bilten and Näfels, Switzerland, and a wholly owned subsidiary in the United Arab Emirates, ANAVIA combines Swiss engineering excellence with a growing international footprint. Our reputation is built on technological innovation, operational reliability, and uncompromising quality. Supported by a robust European supply chain, we deliver mission-ready aerospace solutions that reflect the highest standards of Swiss precision and manufacturing excellence.

Your mission

Mechanical Design: Design and develop mechanical systems for unmanned helicopters, with a focus on structural components, landing gear, propulsion systems, and control mechanisms. Experience with either composite structures (layups) or rotating machinery (rotor heads, turbines or propellers) is a must.

Composite and Structural Analysis and Simulation: Proven expertise in composite materials to optimize weight, strength and durability. Perform basic mechanical analysis and simulations (e.g., hand calculations, or simplified finite element analysis) to evaluate the structural integrity and performance of designs under various load conditions.

Rotating Machinery and Dynamics: Contribute to the design and testing of rotating components, ensuring reliability and vibration control. Perform basic dynamic load assessments and fatigue analysis for rotor systems and gas turbines.

Prototyping and Testing: Able to work with manufacturing and testing teams to build prototypes and conduct testing. Perform validation testing to ensure design meets performance and safety requirements.

Documentation: Prepare detailed engineering documentation, including design specifications, testing procedures, and maintenance manuals.

Collaboration: Work closely with electrical, aerodynamic, and software engineering teams to ensure integrated design and performance of the unmanned helicopter systems.

Compliance Assurance: Ensure mechanical designs comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies.

Continuous Improvement: Stay informed about advancements in mechanical engineering and UAV technology, integrating best practices into design processes.

Competencies & Duties

Working independently and responsibly. Perform tasks as described above.

Compliance according to ANAVIA’ employment contract, compliance with company’ safety instructions and employee’ safety requirements, compliance with employers’ quality manual, work instructions and corresponding process specifications and instructions.

International travel required of up to 25% of employee’ working hours.

Your profile

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field with (3) years of industry experience. Master’s degree with (2) years of industry experience is equivalent.

Proven experience in mechanical engineering, preferably in the manned helicopter industry. A must is either composite structures or rotating machinery and components experience.

Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, materials science, and manufacturing processes. Proficiency in CAD software (NX preferred) and simulation tools.

Very good communication skills. High social skills and good analytical and excellent technical understanding.

Good language skills in English (oral and written). German desirable.

Location: On-site in Näfels | Bilten, Switzerland.

Eligibility: Swiss or EU citizens only.