Manufacturing Technician – Prototyping & Test Support

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 looking for a Manufacturing Technician to support the prototyping of spacecraft subsystems and provide hands-on assistance across various workshop and test activities.

Main responsibilities

As a Manufacturing Technician, you will play a key role in the realization of prototypes and support to test activities:

Subsystem prototyping: manufacturing of prototype parts and assemblies (cutting, drilling, machining, fitting, assembling).

Workshop support: contribute to diverse needs such as mechanical adjustments, tooling preparation, and small modifications for engineering teams.

Welding (optional but valuable): TIG or equivalent welding skills on aluminium, stainless steel, or steel are a strong plus.

Test bench support: assist engineers in the assembly and setup of test benches, including mechanical integration and preparation of fixtures.

Production support: possibility to be trained on CNC machines, Wire-EDM (WEDM), or other processes in order to participate in the production of flight hardware.

Quality and documentation: ensure correct execution of tasks, traceability of work, and respect of aerospace cleanliness and quality requirements.

Team collaboration: work closely with engineers and technicians across design, AIT, and manufacturing teams.

Profile

Technical diploma (Bac Pro / BTS / DUT) in mechanics, fabrication, industrial maintenance, or equivalent.

3–5 years of experience in workshop or prototyping activities (aerospace, automotive, precision mechanics, or similar).

Hands-on skills in cutting, drilling, assembly, and fitting.

Welding experience (TIG/GTAW) is a strong advantage.

Knowledge of basic metrology and workshop inspection tools.

Ability to read and follow technical drawings.

Motivation to learn and operate CNC / EDM processes is a plus.

Practical, rigorous, team-oriented, and flexible to adapt to varied workshop tasks.

Professional English is a plus.

What we offer

Direct involvement in the manufacturing of prototypes, test hardware, and potentially flight hardware for a reusable spacecraft.

Training opportunities on CNC and advanced machining technologies (WEDM, EDM).

Daily collaboration with design, AIT, and test teams in a dynamic, international environment.

Start-up industrial setting with hands-on, diverse, and concrete responsibilities.

Position based in Bordeaux (France).

If you enjoy prototyping, hands-on workshop activities, and contributing to both test bench realization and production of flight hardware, join us!

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.