Mechanical Engineer (Test & Validation)

Alta Ares
Alta Ares

Other Engineering

Toulouse, France

Posted on Jun 8, 2026

About Alta Ares


Alta Ares is an air defense Neoprime. We build AI-guided interceptors to counter drones and cruise missiles, along with the software platform that powers them.

Our customers are NATO-aligned militaries and defense institutions, and our systems are regularly deployed during live exercises and operational demonstrations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Founded in 2024, we have grown to 90 people, raised over $60M, and increased revenue 40× this year. We are now entering a new phase of international expansion, industrial scaling, fundraising, and product development.

Role & Mission

Test Bench Design & Development

  • Design and develop mechanical test benches and validation setups

  • Define instrumentation and measurement methods for accurate testing

  • Ensure test environments replicate real-world operational conditions

Validation & Testing

  • Define and execute validation protocols (fatigue, vibration, shock, thermal)

  • Conduct mechanical testing and evaluate system performance under stress

  • Ensure repeatability and reliability of test results

Performance Analysis & Improvement

  • Analyze test data to identify weaknesses, failure modes, and performance limits

  • Provide actionable insights to improve system robustness and durability

  • Support iterative design improvements based on test results

Design Collaboration & Industrialization

  • Work closely with design and engineering teams to improve robustness and manufacturability

  • Contribute to design-for-test and design-for-manufacturing approaches

  • Support the transition from prototype to production

Quality Assurance & Production Support

  • Implement QA/QC methods and tools for production

  • Define inspection procedures and acceptance criteria

  • Ensure consistency and reliability of manufactured systems

Compliance & Documentation

  • Ensure compliance with product requirements, standards, and regulations

  • Write detailed test reports and technical documentation

  • Maintain traceability of validation activities and results

Candidate profile

You are a Mechanical Engineer with strong experience in testing and validation of mechanical systems. You are hands-on, detail-oriented, and driven by understanding how systems behave under real-world constraints.

  • Experience in mechanical testing and validation (fatigue, vibration, shock, thermal)

  • Experience designing and building test benches and instrumentation setups

  • Strong understanding of mechanical systems and failure modes

  • Experience analyzing test data and deriving actionable insights

  • Familiarity with QA/QC processes in production environments

  • Ability to work closely with design and manufacturing teams

  • Strong documentation and reporting skills

Nice to Have

  • Experience in aerospace, drones, robotics, or defense systems

  • Familiarity with industry standards and qualification processes

  • Experience with environmental testing equipment and labs

  • Knowledge of materials science and structural analysis

  • Experience in fast-paced or startup environments