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Propulsion Test Engineer (Hot Fire)

The Exploration Company

The Exploration Company

Quality Assurance
Bordeaux, France
Posted on Mar 25, 2025

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 Propulsion Test Engineer, you will be spearheading the testing of a green chemical thruster.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Overseeing hydraulic characterization tests for thruster component acceptance testing.

  • Managing the assembly, integration, and troubleshooting of thruster prototypes and test setups.

  • Taking responsibility for the day-to-day maintenance, operation, and safety of the test bench.

  • Working closely with thruster development engineers to develop and execute hot-fire campaigns.

  • Developing data acquisition tools to process large amounts of test results efficiently.

  • Analyzing test data to ensure systems meet or exceed performance and using the acquired knowledge to help improve subsequent designs.

  • Preparing technical documentation, including detailed procedures, test reports, design reviews, and performance analyses.

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

What we would love to see from you:

  • A minimum of a bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical, or other related field.

  • 2 to 5 years of experience in propulsion or related fields:

    • Proficiency in propulsion chemistry, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.

    • Hands-on experience with thruster design, propulsion system analysis, and hot-fire testing.

    • Background in storable propellants, and hydrogen peroxide particularly, is a plus.

  • Experience with commonly used simulation tools in propulsion testing (e.g., CEA).

  • Proficiency in Python programming language.

  • Exposure to CAD Software (Siemens NX, CATIA, or similar) and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing.

  • 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.