Propulsion Test Engineer

The Exploration Company; Bordeaux; On-site; EUR 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Visa sponsorship

Agile decision-making environment

Open and collaborative culture

Fun, mission-driven work

Job summary

The Exploration Company in Bordeaux is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer to develop and test propulsion systems for Nyx, a reusable space vehicle. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering and 3–5 years of propulsion testing experience. Responsibilities include preparing tests, developing test plans, and ensuring safety during tests. The role offers an agile and collaborative work environment focused on democratizing space travel.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in propulsion testing or related fields.
• Proficiency in propulsion chemistry, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
• Hands-on experience with engine testing or equivalent.
• Background in cryogenic propulsion is a plus.
• Experience with commonly used simulation tools in propulsion testing.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and execute tests to evaluate hardware performance.
• Develop test plans and lead daily test operations.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure safety during tests.
• Interpret P&IDs and generate test sequences.
• Support test operations with development engineers.

Skills

Propulsion testing

Problem-solving

Analytical abilities

Communication skills

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's, master's or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering

Tools

Simulation tools (e.g., CEA)

Python programming

CAD Software (Siemens NX, CATIA)

Job description

Location

Bordeaux, France

Employment Type

Full time

Department

US & Future Programs, Future Propulsion

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 responsible for the test and analysis of our future propulsion systems.

Key Responsibilities:

In your capacity as a Propulsion Test Engineer, your role will be continuously evolving, but day to day your duties will include:

• Prepare and execute tests at the engine and component level to evaluate hardware performance.
• Developing test plans, test objectives and schedules consistent with requirements and timelines; leading daily test operations and generating test reports.
• Autonomously leading risk assessment analyses and defining mitigation actions to ensure personnel and hardware safety during all test campaigns.
• Interpreting P&IDs and generating test sequences, balancing the risk, needs of the test and the limits of the test bench and test article.
• Working hand in hand with development engineers, test bench team, AIT team and external partners to support all test operations on internal and external test facilities.
• Supporting rapid test data processing with component development engineers to guide the remainder of the test campaign and plan future test campaigns.
• Defining, developing and updating test procedures and guidelines to improve test operations.
• Preparing technical documentation, including detailed procedures, test reports, design reviews, and performance analyses.

What we would love to see from you:

• Bachelor's, master's or PhD in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field (master's and above preferred).
• 3–5 years of experience in propulsion testing or related fields.
  • Proficiency in propulsion chemistry, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
  • Proven hands-on experience with engine testing or equivalent.
  • Background in cryogenic propulsion will be a big plus.
• Experience with commonly used simulation tools in propulsion testing (e.g., CEA).
• Proficiency in python programming language is a plus.
• 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.

Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Canada, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia, Australia, New Zealand.

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.