Propulsion AIT Principal Engineer

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About the role

Here at The Exploration Company, we are building innovative aerospace technologies that advance the future of space transportation. We are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that can eventually be refueled in orbit, and which carries cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run. We are seeking an experienced and talented Propulsion AIT Principal Engineer, to lead the Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) activities for two cryogenic propulsion systems. Each system is supported by a dedicated AIT team. This is a key leadership role that requires technical expertise in liquid-propellant propulsion systems, a strong track record in managing complex engineering projects, and proven experience in leading and mentoring technical teams. As the Propulsion AIT Principal Engineer , you will be responsible for ensuring safe, efficient and technically rigorous execution of propulsion AIT activities from hardware readiness through system-level testing and delivery, provide technical direction across both teams, coordinate priorities and resources, resolve complex technical issues, and ensure that the propulsion systems meet their performance, quality, schedule and safety objectives. This role combines technical leadership, people leadership and hands-on involvement in the preparation and execution of complex cryogenic propulsion test campaigns. Key Responsibilities: • Provide overall technical leadership for the AIT activities of cryogenic propulsion systems • Define and maintain the AIT approach, philosophy, plans and technical execution strategy • Ensure that AIT activities are aligned with system requirements, design intent, verification objectives and programme milestones • Review and approve AIT procedures, test specifications, test plans, test reports, non-conformance dispositions and engineering change documentation • Lead the technical assessment and resolution of complex AIT problems, including test anomalies, hardware issues, instrumentation problems and system performance deviations • Oversee the preparation, integration, functional testing and acceptance activities for the propulsion systems • Coordinate the investigation of anomalies and ensure that root-cause analysis, corrective actions and retest activities are properly managed • Ensure that all AIT activities are performed in accordance with applicable safety rules, operational constraints and approved procedures • Lead and support the propulsion AIT Team Leaders, ensuring clear priorities, ownership and effective communication • Balance resources and priorities across all propulsion systems according to programme needs and test criticality • 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 AIT schedules, resource requirements, facility usage and major test milestones • Identify technical, operational and schedule risks related to AIT activities and ensure that mitigation actions are defined and tracked • Ensure compliance with company processes and applicable regulatory requirements for propulsion AIT activities • Promote a strong safety culture, particularly for activities involving cryogenic fluids, high pressure, hazardous energy and propulsion test operations • Support quality investigations, audits, non-conformance management and corrective and preventive actions 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, air

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