Storm Test Bench Principal Engineer

Here at The Exploration Company, we are building spacecrafts for humanity. 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 which carries cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run. We are seeking an experienced and talented Storm Test Bench Principal Engineer, to lead the development of one of the most powerful European cryogenic test bench for 2.5MN class engines. This is a key leadership role that requires deep technical expertise in liquid-propellant propulsion systems, a proven track record managing complex engineering projects, and experience leading and mentoring technical teams. As Storm Test Bench Principal Engineer, you will ensure that test bench development is carried out safely, efficiently and with technical rigor, from design through commissioning and system-level testing. You will provide technical direction to the testing team, coordinate priorities and resources, resolve complex technical issues, and ensure the test bench meets its performance, quality, schedule and safety objectives. The role combines technical leadership, people leadership and hands-on involvement in preparing and executing complex cryogenic propulsion test campaigns. Key Responsibilities / Tasks: • Provide overall technical leadership for the test bench development • Define and maintain the development approach, philosophy, plans and technical execution strategy • Ensure that test bench capabilities are aligned with system requirements, design intent, verification objectives and programme milestones • Lead the technical assessment and resolution of complex test problems, including test anomalies, hardware issues, instrumentation problems and system performance deviations • Coordinate the investigation of anomalies and ensure that root-cause analysis, corrective actions and retest activities are properly managed • Ensure that the test bench design performed in accordance with applicable safety rules, operational constraints and approved procedures • Support the development of the teams through coaching, technical guidance and constructive feedback • Build a culture of ownership, disciplined execution, continuous improvement and learning from experience • Contribute to integrated project planning, including test schedules, resource requirements, facility usage and major test milestones • Identify technical, operational and schedule risks related to test activities and ensure that mitigation actions are defined and implemented • Ensure compliance with company processes and applicable regulatory requirements for cryogenic propulsion test activities • Promote a strong safety culture, particularly for activities involving cryogenic propellants, high pressure, hazardous energy and propulsion test operations Required Qualifications & Skills • Degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, propulsion engineering or a related technical discipline • Proven professional experience (5+ years) in spacecraft, launch vehicle, aircraft, industrial gas, energy or another relevant high-technology environment • Experience in cryogenic propulsion systems testing • Proven experience leading engineering teams and coordinating multidisciplinary technical activities • Experience with cryogenic systems, liquid propulsion, pressurised systems, fluid systems or related test operations • Experience planning and executing complex test campaigns from test preparation through final reporting • Demonstrated ability to lead technical investigations and resolve test anomalies using structured problem-solving methods • Experience working with test facilities, ground support equipment, instrumentation and data acquisitio