Propulsion Functional 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.

As a Propulsion Functional Engineer, you will be the bridge between theoretical design and physical hardware and between the engine(s) and the system. You are responsible for defining the functional architecture of the propulsion system, ensuring that fluidic subsystems operate correctly together to meet mission requirements. You will own the system's behaviour from the ground operations to the recovery or disposal

Key Responsibilities

As a Propulsion Functional Engineer, your responsibilities will include:

• System Architecture

• Contribute to the evaluation and preliminary optimization of various propulsion system concepts in terms of performance, mass operation, cost and reliability/safety

• Contribute to architecture trade studies, sensitivity analyses, and risk assessments and support component selection (including make-or-buy process)

• Performance Modeling

• Develop and maintain functional performance models of propulsive systems using simulation frameworks such as EcosimPro and codes in Python

• Validate and anchor models based on available test data

• Failure Analysis

• Contribute FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) to ensure the system architecture is consistent with reliability and safety targets

• Sequence Development

• Define the Concept of Operations of the Functional Propulsion System in accordance with the engine needs and constraints

• Requirements Management

• Contribute to functional requirements for subsystems such as valves, regulators, and tanks based on propulsion system analyses

Location

You will perform your duties principally at the Company's premises in Bordeaux and may be required to travel from time to time to our company’s premises in Munich in the course of your duties.

What we would love to see from you

• Master’s and/or PhD degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field

• A minimum of 2-year proven experience with 0D - 1D fluid simulation tools (model development and analyses) - (e.g., EcosimPro, Amesim)

• Deep understanding of fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and compressible flow

• Direct experience with cryogenic propulsion systems (Liquid Oxygen, Liquid Hydrogen, or Methane).

• Experience with storable propulsion system is a plus

• Fluency in English; proficiency in Italian, German or French are an asset

Skills and Behaviours

• A hands-on approach to problem-solving, combined with a collaborative mindset to work across multidisciplinary teams

• Excellent organizational skills and ability to multitask

• Capability of working autonomously whilst collaborating productively with remote teams

• Positive and flexible attitude in a constantly evolving environment

• Grit to get the job done

• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of audiences

• Behaviors consistent with The Exploration Company’s core values of Commitment, Innovation, Trust, Quality, and Teamwork

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.