Lead Propulsion AIT

Here at The Exploration Company, we are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that can eventually be refuelled in orbit and that can carry cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run.

We are also developing advanced propulsion systems to power our spacecraft programs. As Lead Propulsion Assembly & Test, you will drive the strategy and execution of propulsion AIT across all engine programs, reporting to the Chief MAIT and leading multiple senior principals and teams.

This role owns the roadmap, technical direction, and operational performance of propulsion assembly and test capabilities — from facility strategy and site selection to delivery and operations of major test assets.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Own the Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) roadmap for all propulsion systems across programs in collaboration with the different projects design teams.

• Define development priorities, capability maturation plans, and long-term test strategy in alignment with program needs.

• Prepare major technical and investment decisions with the Chief MAIT and head of propulsion programs and provide clear recommendations.

Organizational Leadership

• Lead and coordinate senior principals including:

• Propulsion Test Principal

• Propulsion Assembly Principals

• Common Services Team Leader (CAD, GSE and capabilities)

• Principal for the largest rocket engine test bench

• Set objectives, allocate resources, and ensure coherent execution across teams.

• Build a high-performance organization focused on safety, reliability, and delivery.

• Manage with the team the regulatory constraints on different countries to be able to deliver on time

Program Execution & Performance

• Ensure propulsion assembly and test activities are planned, resourced, and executed on schedule and within budget.

• Take responsability of the benches development and maintenance

• Provide technical oversight and decisive guidance to resolve complex engineering issues.

• Monitor risks, drive mitigation strategies, and ensure operational readiness of facilities and teams

Test Infrastructure & Site Strategy

• Define and manage the strategy for propulsion test sites and major facilities.

• Select and oversee locations to maximize operational synergy, safety, logistics efficiency, and lifecycle cost.

• Ensure facilities support current and future engine programs, including large-scale test benches.

Technical Authority & Decision Support

• Provide senior technical insight on propulsion AIT methods, test approaches, and facility architectures.

• Support design-for-test and design-for-assembly decisions with propulsion engineering teams.

• Establish standards, processes, and best practices across propulsion AIT activities.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Maintain strong alignment with the Head of Propulsion and propulsion leads across projects.

• Interface with program management, safety, facilities, and supply chain to ensure integrated delivery.

• Represent propulsion AIT strategy in internal reviews and external technical discussions.

What We Would Love to See From You

• Degree in aerospace, mechanical, or related engineering discipline.

• Extensive experience (10+ years) in propulsion assembly and/or hot-fire testing of rocket engines

• Knowledge and experience on cryo technologies, mono and bipropellant toxic prop technologies

• Proven leadership of multidisciplinary engineering teams and large technical programs.

• Demonstrated experience delivering complex test infrastructure or industrial facilities.

• Strong background in ground support equipment, fluid systems, and test operations.

• Strategic mindset with the ability to translate program needs into executable roadmaps.

• Excellent decision-making, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Why you should join us!

What makes us special here at The Exploration Company and why we think you will enjoy working here is:  

• We’re Agile - we make decisions fast whilst keeping our goals and systems in mind 

• We’re Open and Collaborative - we are transparent about risks and obstacles, so that we can cooperate to overcome them  

• We have a lot of Fun - we refuel our energy knowing we are democratising space. It’s a wonderful and rare opportunity, are YOU up for the challenge?  

We'd love to hear from you if you wish to be a part of our journey. Please submit your CV now for immediate consideration and we will be in touch shortly. 
 
The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.