Test Development 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.

We are also developing different types of propulsion systems to power our future vehicles and missions. As a talented Test Development Engineer, you will be responsible for the development of test facilities for our future propulsion systems.

Key Responsibilities:

In your capacity as a Test Development Engineer, your role will be continuously evolving, but day to day your duties will include:

• Synthesise test bench requirements from user and operator needs and plan required verification methods and tests.

• Preparing P&IDs of test facilities based on test bench requirements, selecting components and undertaking CAD design of the ground support equipment with minimal oversight.

• Undertake hazard assessments of the test facility design (FMEA and HAZOPs) to determine if any additional changes to the design are required.

• Perform technical trade-offs to determine the best choice of hardware, software, equipment, component, location etc for various test facilities.

• Autonomously leading risk assessment analyses for future tests and developing mitigation actions to ensure personnel and hardware safety; developing clear procedures and guidelines to improve company processes.

• Develop and maintain test procedures, sequences, scripts and configuration files required for test facilities, particularly those required for the entry-into-service and commissioning phase of the system.

• Selecting control and data acquisition systems based on test requirements and support commissioning activities to ensure the proper working order of these systems.

• Lead and coordinate end-to-end activities of the development of test facilities including design, reviews, manufacturing, installation, commissioning, test operations, ongoing upgrades and maintenance.

• Work with procurement, AIT and design teams during the development of test facilities to find the right balance of technical solutions, cost and lead time.

• Collaborate with others to troubleshoot test anomalies and tackle challenging engineering problems.

• Presenting findings to team members and participating in design reviews and project discussions.

What we would love to see from you:

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

• 2–5 years of experience in propulsion or related fields.

• Hands on experience with test bench design and development, especially for cryogenic rocket engine testing.

• Experience in testing or test development in other related fields (e.g. liquid hydrogen) will also be considered.

• Background in cryogenic propellants and cryogenic systems will be a big plus.

• Experience undertaking detailed risk and hazard assessments for testing activities.

• Exposure to the process of obtaining environmental analysis for test facilities is also a plus.

• Experience using CAD Software (Siemens NX, CATIA, or similar) to develop and manage complex assemblies.

• Familiarity with data acquisition and control systems and how to select appropriate hardware based on requirements.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.

• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to convey complex concepts to diverse audiences.

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.