Senior Propulsion AIT Engineer

About the role

Joining The Exploration Company as a Senior Propulsion AIT Engineer means becoming a core member of the team dedicated to the development of Nyx, a reusable orbital spacecraft. In this position, you will take ownership of the entire lifecycle of the Storm and Typhoon engines, focusing specifically on their assembly, integration, and testing phases. Your work will directly influence the industrialization of propulsion systems, bridging the gap between design validation and scalable manufacturing. You will be responsible for ensuring that individual components, from turbopumps to complex feed systems, are integrated flawlessly into complete engine assemblies. This role requires a high level of ownership in defining procedures that guarantee safety, reliability, and compliance. You will play a pivotal role in transitioning these engines from prototype stages to robust production lines capable of supporting multiple vehicles. Ultimately, your contributions will ensure that the propulsion systems meet the stringent demands of orbital flight and reusability.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Supervise the intricate assembly and integration processes for cryogenic propulsion hardware, encompassing turbopumps, complex valve assemblies, and high-performance feed systems.
• Author and maintain detailed assembly procedures, precise work instructions, and comprehensive manufacturing documentation to ensure execution consistency.
• Specify and develop the necessary tooling, fixtures, and specialized ground support equipment required for efficient and safe propulsion assembly operations.
• Implement and uphold rigorous cleanliness and contamination control protocols, alongside strict configuration management standards, to protect sensitive hardware.
• Prepare flight-worthy engine hardware for rigorous testing campaigns and provide hands-on support during the installation of test benches and associated infrastructure.
• Collaborate closely with the site director and Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) specialists to establish a safe and efficient engine production line.
• Analyze design elements to provide critical input on design for manufacturability and testability, optimizing the build and verification processes.
• Drive the strategic transition of propulsion systems from prototype development phases to reliable serial production environments.
• Deliver expert technical guidance during high-risk propulsion assembly activities, ensuring adherence to best practices and safety protocols.
• Act as a mentor and knowledge resource for junior engineers and technicians, elevating the overall capability of the MAIT team.
• Facilitate seamless coordination between engineering, manufacturing, and test teams to remove blockers and ensure project momentum.
• Liaise with external partners and internal stakeholders to align propulsion assembly timelines with broader project objectives.
• Monitor and improve assembly line efficiency, identifying opportunities for automation or process refinement.
• Ensure all propulsion hardware documentation is accurate, up-to-date, and readily accessible for audits and production support.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• Possess a minimum of 5 years of cumulative experience specifically in engine assembly, testing, or equivalent high-tech hardware roles.
• Demonstrate practical, hands-on experience with the assembly and acceptance testing of complex engine components and subsystems.
• Exhibit a strong, intuitive understanding of fluid dynamics principles as they apply to cryogenic systems and propulsion hardware.
• Maintain a high level of professional rigor and an obsessive attention to detail in all documentation and assembly tasks.
• Cultivate a proactive problem-solving mindset characterized by creativity and deep curiosity when facing technical challenges.
• Communicate effectively and professionally, fostering collaboration within multidisciplinary, cross-functional engineering teams.
• Adhere strictly to industry standards and regulatory requirements relevant to aerospace manufacturing and testing.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where adaptability and quick learning are essential.
• Show commitment to safety-first practices, ensuring a secure working environment for all team members.

Nice to have

• Exposure to manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, additive manufacturing, surface treatments, and non-destructive inspections, and an understanding of their impact on tolerances and performance.

Practical notes

Relocation assistance is available, including visa sponsorship where applicable. All offers are contingent on a successful background check, conducted by Zinc Work Limited.