Propulsion Functional Engineer

Mechanical Analysis Engineer @ The Exploration Company; München; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Exploration Company is seeking a Propulsion Functional Engineer to join the Storm engine project. You will help define the engine's functional architecture, ensure seamless integration of subsystems, and develop models using EcosimPro and Python.

Join a team focused on space exploration, high reliability, and fast decision making. Fluency in English is required; German or French is a plus, with opportunities to shape future space technologies.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline; alternatively, a bachelor's with substantial relevant experience.
• Minimum 2 years of experience with cryogenic propulsion systems.
• Strong knowledge of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics.
• Fluency in English; German or French is an asset.
• Basic knowledge of aerospace standards (ECSS, NASA).
• Experience with modelling/simulation tools (EcosimPro) and Python scripting.
• Hands-on hardware development experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Define functional architecture of the Storm engine and ensure subsystem interaction meets mission requirements.
• Contribute to architecture trade-off studies, risk assessments, and component selection decisions.
• Develop and maintain functional models of the propulsion system using EcosimPro and Python.
• Contribute to functional requirements definition and FMEA to ensure reliability and safety targets.
• Define demonstrator architectures and analyze test data to validate system models.

Skills

Collaboration

Communication

Analysis

Problem solving

Research

Time management

Space enthusiasm

Organizational skills

Education

Master's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Bachelor's with substantial relevant experience

Tools

EcosimPro

Python

Job description

Here at The Exploration Company, we are building spacecrafts for humanity.

Description

We are seeking a talented Propulsion Functional Engineer to join the Storm engine project. As a key member of our System Team, you will play a central role in defining the functional architecture of the Storm engine, ensuring seamless integration and correct interaction between subsystems to meet overall mission requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Functional Engineering

  • Contribute to architecture trade-off studies, sensitivity analyses, and risk assessments, as well as component selection and make-or-buy decisions

  • Contribute to the evaluation and optimization of the engine architecture and operating conditions

  • Develop and maintain functional performance models of the propulsion system using simulation frameworks such as EcosimPro and Python

• Systems Engineering

  • Contribute to the definition and allocation of functional requirements for the engine and its subsystems

  • Contribute to FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) to ensure that the system architecture meets reliability and safety targets

• Testing & Model Validation

  • Contribute to the definition of demonstrator architectures and operating conditions

  • Analyse test data and use test results to validate and anchor system models

What we would love to see from you

• Master's Degree or higher (or NZ and AUS "Bachelor with honors") in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related and applicable technical discipline. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree with substantial relevant experience

• Minimum 2 years of proven experience working with cryogenic propulsion systems

• Strong knowledge of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics

• Fluency in English; proficiency in German or French are an asset

• Basic knowledge of aerospace standards (e.g. ECSS, NASA guidelines)

• Experience with modelling and simulation tools (e.g. EcosimPro) and/or experience writing scripts in Python

• (Optional) Hands-on experience developing hardware from concept to working prototypes is an asset

Skills and Behaviors

• Strong ability to work in close collaboration with others

• Strong oral and written communication skills

• Strong analysis and problem-solving skills

• Strong research skills and ability to infer useful information from partial or even contradictory sources

• Drive towards excellence coupled with ability to work within time constraints

• Proficiency in organization and prioritization of tasks

• Behavior consistent with The Exploration Company's core values of Mission, Vision, Integrity, Excellence and Teamwork

• Enthusiasm for space exploration: be ready to have an impact on the future global space industry.

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?

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.

All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, which will be subject to the country, role, and project you applied for. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and agree that any offer of employment may be conditional upon successful condition of this check. The Exploration Company partners with Zinc Work Limited located in the UK (Zinc), a third-party provider, to ensure this process as efficient and transparent as possible. If applicable, you will receive an email from Zinc upon acceptance of your offer with a link to a secure portal where you can provide the required information to Zinc.