Engine Principal (Aerospace)

TL;DR

Engine Principal (Aerospace Propulsion): Leading the development of high-thrust hypergolic propulsion systems for crewed spaceflight applications with an accent on engine architecture, certification, and flight readiness. Focus on designing human-rated systems, optimizing engine performance, and mitigating technical risks for orbital vehicles.

Location: On-site in Houston, TX. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) due to ITAR/EAR regulations.

Company

The Exploration Company is developing Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle capable of orbital refueling and transporting cargo or humans.

What you will do

• Lead end-to-end development of high-thrust hypergolic rocket engines from initial concept to flight readiness.
• Establish engine architecture and drive key design decisions using trade studies, simulations, and analytical assessments.
• Oversee program execution, including the preparation and execution of major reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR).
• Build and mentor a high-performing multidisciplinary propulsion team, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Manage technical interactions with suppliers and external stakeholders, including agencies like NASA, AFRL, and DARPA.
• Collaborate with systems engineering, avionics, and program teams to ensure successful vehicle integration.

Requirements

• B.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline (advanced degrees considered).
• 10+ years of relevant engineering experience.
• Demonstrated experience designing, analyzing, integrating, and testing engines for space vehicles.
• Proven experience in developing human-rated systems.
• Working knowledge of throttleable high-thrust hypergolic engines and environmental testing (vibration, shock, acoustic, vacuum).
• U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency (Green Card) is mandatory.

Culture & Benefits

• Agile environment with fast decision-making processes.
• Open and collaborative culture with transparency regarding risks and obstacles.
• Opportunity to work on the democratization of space.
• Relocation assistance provided for eligible candidates, including visa sponsorship where applicable.