Thruster Technical Owner

About the role

The Exploration Company is at the forefront of developing Nyx, an innovative modular and reusable orbital vehicle aimed at cargo transport and future human spaceflight missions. As a Thruster Technical Owner, you will play a crucial role in overseeing the technical lifecycle of Earth thruster assemblies. This includes ensuring that these components meet the necessary performance, safety, and integration standards throughout their development and operational phases.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Take charge of the technical baseline for designated thruster assemblies, ensuring that all requirements, interfaces, and verification methods are meticulously documented and adhered to.
• Collaborate with various internal teams such as Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC), avionics, vehicle design, and procurement to ensure seamless system-level integration.
• Supervise the supplier development process, which includes establishing qualification criteria, reviewing hot-fire testing data, and managing hardware delivery timelines.
• Assess supplier documentation, including technical drawings, test results, and inspection reports, to confirm the technical readiness of components.
• Proactively identify and communicate potential risks related to manufacturing readiness, test outcomes, and delivery schedules to relevant stakeholders.
• Support Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) and Manufacturing, Assembly, Integration, and Testing (MAIT) activities, along with analyzing thruster performance during flight operations.
• Engage in troubleshooting and problem-solving during the integration phase to ensure that thruster systems function as intended.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations on thruster performance and technical assessments for internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in propulsion technology to inform design and operational decisions.
• Participate in design reviews and technical meetings to provide insights on thruster systems and their integration into the Nyx vehicle.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide guidance on best practices in thruster technology and supplier management.

Requirements

• A degree in engineering, preferably in aerospace, mechanical, or propulsion disciplines.
• Proven experience with spacecraft liquid propulsion systems, particularly with bipropellant thrusters, valves, or thrust chambers.
• A solid background in managing relationships with technical suppliers for critical space components is essential.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct system-level engineering analysis across various interfaces, including propulsion, safety, and operational aspects.
• Proficiency in English is required for effective communication within the team and with external partners.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on detail-oriented technical assessments.

Nice to have

• Knowledge of the French or German languages would be advantageous for collaboration with international teams.
• Familiarity with space industry standards and regulatory requirements related to propulsion systems.
• Experience in project management or leading cross-functional teams in a technical environment.

Skills & tools

• Strong technical judgment in areas such as hot-fire testing, qualification processes, and manufacturing methodologies.
• Proficient in managing complex interactions between hardware, software, and vehicle design elements.
• Excellent communication skills, with an emphasis on fact-based reporting and early identification of technical risks.
• Familiarity with engineering software tools and project management platforms that facilitate collaboration and documentation.

Practical notes

• The company offers relocation assistance and visa sponsorship for qualified candidates who may need to move to Bordeaux.
• Employment is contingent upon a background check conducted through Zinc Work Limited to ensure the integrity of the hiring process.
• The Exploration Company is committed to diversity and inclusion, serving as an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate based on any protected status.
• Candidates interested in this role should be prepared to engage in a dynamic and innovative work environment that values creativity and collaboration.

Join us at The Exploration Company and be part of a team that is shaping the future of space exploration!

About the company

The Exploration Company is a European space technology startup developing reusable orbital vehicles, focused on making space more accessible and sustainable.