AIT Thermal/ECLSS Team Leader

About the role

The Exploration Company is seeking an experienced AIT Thermal/ECLSS Team Leader to spearhead the integration and testing efforts for the Nyx orbital vehicle. In this capacity, you will own the planning and execution of thermal and Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) activities, driving critical verification campaigns from the sub-system level through to full capsule integration. You will be responsible for designing and leading thermal EVT (environment test) campaigns and detailed sub-system level test sequences, including cold plate qualification and Pressure Compartment System validation. This role requires hands-on leadership to ensure the successful integration of the Thermal system within the capsule, leveraging your expertise to manage complex hardware interfaces such as pipes, fittings, valves, MLI, heaters, and sensors. You will define and build the necessary test setups, procure required test parts, and author precise procedures that guide execution in a fast-paced development environment. A key aspect of this position is fostering close collaboration with engineering and design teams to correlate and validate models, ensuring all testing supports mission success. Ultimately, you will ensure that all thermal and ECLSS verification activities comply with rigorous spaceflight standards while actively improving processes based on lessons learned.

Key facts

What you'll do

Design and plan the thermal EVT campaign at both system and capsule levels, outlining a clear path for verification.

Define and execute thermal and ECLSS activities at the sub-system level, covering cold plate qualification, Pressure Compartment System, and ventilation systems.

Prepare detailed engineering drawings to support the manufacture of custom test bench components and fixtures.

Lead and mentor a small team, providing technical direction and ensuring timely integration of the Thermal system into the Capsule.

Define and manage flight hardware interfaces during integration, including pipes, fittings, valves, MLI, heaters, sensors, harness routing, and thermal fillers.

Design the 3D setup for test activities and oversee the construction of test setups to precise specifications.

Procure necessary test parts and write detailed procedures for every test activity to ensure clarity and repeatability.

Plan, define, prepare, and execute thermal/ECLSS tests in close coordination with both internal teams and external test facilities.

Provide comprehensive test results and generate detailed reports that capture outcomes, anomalies, and conclusions for review.

Collaborate with the engineering team to correlate test data and validate analytical models against physical test results.

Work closely with the design office and systems engineering groups to ensure designs meet flight qualification standards and test objectives.

Continuously improve processes and procedures by incorporating lessons learned from previous test campaigns and operations.

Support the team in other factory setup activities as the company grows, with the scope of responsibilities potentially evolving to meet mission needs.

Ensure all testing activities strictly adhere to spaceflight standards and internal quality, safety, and compliance protocols.

Requirements

Hold a minimum of a Master of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Physics, or a closely related technical field.

Possess over 5 years of relevant experience in testing or integration within the aerospace sector, demonstrating a proven track record.

Show a strong understanding of spacecraft thermal control systems, ECLSS systems, and established test methodologies for space hardware.

Have hands-on experience with TVAC chambers, thermal cycling equipment, sensor systems, and test bench setup, including practical skills like pipe bending.

Demonstrate familiarity with instrumentation commonly used in thermal and ECLSS testing, such as thermocouples, RTDs, thermal blankets, heaters, pressure sensors, and actuators.

Bring experience in writing and executing test procedures and managing complex test campaigns from initiation to completion.

Show previous experience with CAD software, preferably Siemens NX, for designing test setups and components.

Have experience in managing a small team, providing guidance, and facilitating effective collaboration.

Exhibit excellent problem-solving skills, autonomy, and meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of test planning and execution.

Be fluent in English, both written and verbal, to enable clear communication across international teams and stakeholders.

Practical notes

The Exploration Company offers relocation assistance for candidates who need it, including visa sponsorship where applicable. All employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, which will be conducted by Zinc Work Limited in accordance with country, role, and project requirements. By submitting your application, you acknowledge that any resulting job offer may be conditional on this background check. The company operates as an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability status.