Propulsion Test Development Engineer

The Exploration Company; Bordeaux; Hybrid; EUR 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Exploration Company is seeking a Test Development Engineer to join our propulsion facilities team in Bordeaux. You will help design, develop, and operate test facilities for future propulsion systems, including cryogenic configurations, with an emphasis on safety and reliability.

You will translate stakeholder needs into facility requirements, perform design trades, and lead end-to-end activities from concept through commissioning and ongoing upgrades, while collaborating with procurement,

Qualifications

• Practical experience in design, development, commissioning, or operation of test facilities for propulsion systems.
• Experience with cryogenic propulsion test facilities is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with evidence-based recommendations.
• Ability to work autonomously within a multidisciplinary team and lead discussions.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize test bench requirements from user needs and plan verification methods and tests.
• Translate engine test objectives into facility-level requirements and performance criteria.
• Perform trade-offs to select hardware, software, and location for test facilities.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation actions for safety of personnel and hardware.
• Contribute to cost, schedule, procurement, commissioning, and maintenance planning.
• Prepare and maintain P&IDs of test facilities based on bench requirements.
• Undertake preliminary ground support equipment design with minimal oversight.
• Perform hazard assessments (FMEA/HAZOPs) and recommend design changes as needed.
• Collaborate with test bench teams across design, reviews, manufacturing, and commissioning.
• Coordinate with procurement, AIT, and design teams to balance technical solutions, cost, and lead time.
• Present findings to the team and participate in design reviews and project discussions.

Skills

Analytical problem-solving

Leadership

Effective communication

Autonomous work

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor's degree in aerospace/ mechanical engineering

Master's degree in aerospace/ mechanical engineering

PhD in a relevant field

Tools

P&ID design tools

FMEA/HAZOP experience

Job description

The Exploration Company is seeking a Test Development Engineer to join our propulsion facilities team in Bordeaux. You will help design, develop, and operate test facilities for future propulsion systems, including cryogenic configurations, with an emphasis on safety and reliability.

You will translate stakeholder needs into facility requirements, perform design trades, and lead end-to-end activities from concept through commissioning and ongoing upgrades, while collaborating with procurement,