Propulsion AIT Engineer

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.

Our Future Projects unit is dedicated to expanding and complementing these capabilities by conceptualizing and pre-developing new technologies, products, and programs.

We want you as a talented Propulsion AIT Engineer to help us in our mission by:

• Being involved in any type of AIT operations for The Exploration Company in our facilities, and especially in the testing of the propulsion systems of our space vehicles.

• Taking part in the definition of propulsion systems ConOps.

• Participating in the design, setup and operation of the test benches/facilities and FGSE (Fluidic Ground Support Equipment) that we will have to install.

• Working closely with the rest of the AIT team and Propulsion team.

Key Responsibilities

In your capacity as Propulsion AIT Engineer, your role will be continuously evolving, but day to day your duties will include:

• Developing and executing tests at the propulsion system and engine level to evaluate hardware performance.

• Participate in the design, setup, and operation of test benches for propulsion systems.

• Developing test plans, test objectives and schedules consistent with requirements and timelines; leading daily test operations and generating test reports.

• Autonomously leading risk assessment analyses and defining mitigation actions to ensure personnel and hardware safety during all test campaigns.

• Interpreting P&IDs and generating test sequences, balancing the risk, needs of the test, and the limits of the test bench and test article.

• Working hand in hand with development engineers, AIT team, and external partners to support all test operations.

• Defining, developing and updating test procedures and guidelines to improve test operations.

• Preparing technical documentation, including detailed procedures, test reports, design reviews, and performance analyses.

• Defining required mechanical tools and GSE.

• Setting up a good work environment, for example identifying any missing tool to do properly all the tests and working on the organization and management of all these tools.

What we would love to see from you

In the role of Propulsion AIT Engineer ideally, you will have the following:

• Bachelor's, master's or PhD in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field (master's and above preferred)

• 5+ years of experience in propulsion testing or related fields

• Proficiency in propulsion chemistry, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics

• Proven hands-on experience with propulsion systems testing or equivalent

• Background in cryogenic propulsion will be a great plus

• Experience with commonly used simulation tools in propulsion testing (e.g., CEA) will be a plus

• Proficiency in Python programming language will be a plus

• Exposure to CAD Software (Siemens NX, CATIA, or similar) and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing

• Passion for advancing the commercial space industry

• Highly motivated to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up environment

• Fluent in English. German, French, Italian or Arabic is an asset

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.