Nyx Test Bench Engineer
Job description
Nyx Test Bench Engineer at The Exploration Company.
About the role
The Nyx Test Bench Engineer will own the development and delivery of the propulsion test facility for The Exploration Company's modular orbital vehicle. This position is responsible for translating high-level propulsion requirements into tangible test facility specifications, utilities, and control logic. You will design the vacuum hot fire test capability specifically for qualifying orbital thrusters within the 100 to 800 Newton range. The role mandates close collaboration with the main designer and team leader to ensure the facility meets stringent technical and safety standards. You will manage the integration of legacy propellants such as MON-class oxidizers and MMH-type fuels throughout the facility lifecycle. Additionally, the engineer will own hazard analysis activities like FMEA and HAZOP to ensure safe test execution. This position requires active participation from requirements definition through commissioning and ongoing daily operation. Ultimately, you will ensure the test facility supports the qualification and development of reusable spacecraft propulsion systems.
Key facts
What you'll do
Define the technical specifications for a vacuum hot fire test facility dedicated to orbital thruster development and qualification.
Translate complex propulsion test requirements into detailed facility, utilities, and ground support equipment architectures.
Design and implement instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and control logic to ensure safe and accurate hot-fire testing.
Manage suppliers and manufacturing activities to ensure facility hardware aligns with test objectives and project timelines.
Coordinate closely with the main designer and team leader to validate facility design against propulsion system needs.
Plan and execute commissioning, acceptance testing, and entry-into-service procedures for the test facility.
Perform hazard analysis activities, including FMEA and HAZOP, and help implement risk mitigation measures.
Develop standard operating procedures for handling, testing, maintenance, and emergency response for propellant systems.
Integrate thrusters onto the test bench and support verification activities to confirm system functionality.
Support the daily operation of the test facility, including conducting hot fire tests, cold flows, decontamination, and maintenance.
Perform ongoing maintenance activities and troubleshooting to maximize facility uptime and operational reliability.
Act as a primary point of contact for internal engineering teams, customers, and external partners regarding facility operations.
Ensure all test activities comply with safety protocols and regulatory requirements for handling hazardous materials.
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance test processes, efficiency, and safety standards.
Provide technical documentation and reports to stakeholders to ensure transparency and traceability of test results.
Requirements
Hold a degree in aerospace, propulsion system, mechanical, chemical engineering, or a related discipline.
Possess more than two years of hands-on experience with propulsion test benches, with a focus on storable and legacy propellants.
Demonstrate a strong understanding of fluid systems, pressurized systems, and ground support equipment.
Show familiarity with safety-critical systems, industrial automation, and test operations in a demanding environment.
Exhibit excellent communication skills to interact effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Be able to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in a fast-paced startup environment.
Commit to adhering to strict safety standards and procedures for handling hazardous propellants and conducting hot-fire tests.
Display strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing requirements and technical challenges.
Be willing to relocate to Bordeaux, France, with openness to visa sponsorship where applicable.
Agree to submit to a background check as part of the employment offer process, which may vary by country and role.
Acknowledge compliance with the terms outlined in the application process, including equal opportunity employment policies.
Nice to have
Experience with monopropellant or hypergolic propellant handling and testing.
Knowledge of space-qualified materials and components used in propulsion systems.
Familiarity with test automation frameworks and data analysis tools.
Understanding of regulatory and compliance requirements for space propulsion testing.
Practical notes
Relocation assistance is available for candidates willing to relocate, including visa sponsorship where applicable.
All employment offers are subject to successful completion of a background check, which may vary by country, role, and project.
By submitting your application, you acknowledge agreement to these terms.