The objective of this work is to perform a synthesis of a cam mechanism of the first species, with translating flat-face follower, based on deterministic and probabilistic approaches. The study consists of two parts: the first consists of optimization of the mechanism to obtain an optimal size and ensure a more efficient operation, taking into account the three major parameters that generally influence the design of this type mechanism, namely the base radius of the cam, the length of the plate and the eccentricity of the rod. In addition, the constraints related to the performance and resistance indicators as well as the geometric conditions are taken into account. The second part of this work is devoted to the reliability analysis whose probability of system failure is estimated by the approximate methods: FORM / SORM and Monte Carlo simulation, using the software Phimeca Software. Sensitivity measurements have demonstrated their effectiveness on system reliability by making it more robust.