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.
As a talented Valve / Component Test Engineer, you will plan and execute the test campaigns that qualify and accept solenoid isolation valves for our storable propulsion system — from functional and leak testing through life-cycle and propellant-compatibility testing.
Role Overview
Test Planning & Procedure Development
Develop test plans and procedures for solenoid isolation valve qualification, acceptance, and life testing (functional response, leak, proof/burst, cycle life, propellant compatibility).
Define test success criteria and correlate them with valve functional and performance requirements.
Support V&V planning in coordination with system functional and design engineers.
Test Execution & Data Acquisition
Execute functional, performance, and environmental test campaigns on solenoid valves (cold flow, vacuum, thermal, vibration, EMI where applicable).
Set up and operate test benches, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems for valve response time, leak rate, and flow characterization.
Reduce and analyze test data, comparing results against predictions and requirements.
Anomaly Investigation & Root Cause
Investigate test anomalies — leakage exceedances, actuation failures, response time drift — and lead root cause analysis.
Support disposition of non-conformances and coordinate corrective actions with design and manufacturing.
Document test results and anomalies for certification and configuration traceability.
Test Facility, Tooling & Safety
Design and maintain test fixtures, GSE, and facility setups for valve testing, including propellant-compatible test benches.
Ensure safe handling procedures for test operations, particularly where storable/hypergolic propellant simulants or fluids are used.
Continuously improve test infrastructure, automation, and data processing tools.
Key Responsibilities
Location
You will perform your duties principally at the Company's premises in Bordeaux and may be required to travel from time to time to our company’s premises in Munich in the course of your duties.
What we would love to see from you
B.S. in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with 3+ years of hands-on test engineering experience with valves or fluid components.
Experience with functional, leak, and life-cycle testing of solenoid or similar valves.
Familiarity with storable/hypergolic propellant test safety practices is a strong plus.
Experience with DAQ systems and instrumentation (pressure, flow, position sensors).
Root-cause investigation experience.
Familiarity with applicable test standards (e.g., NASA, ECSS, or equivalent).
Skills and Behaviours:
A hands-on approach to problem-solving, combined with a collaborative mindset to work across multidisciplinary teams
Excellent organizational skills and ability to multitask
Capability of working autonomously whilst collaborating productively with remote teams
Positive and flexible attitude in a constantly evolving environment
Grit to get the job done
Ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of audiences
Behaviors consistent with The Exploration Company’s core values of Commitment, Innovation, Trust, Quality, and Teamwork
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.
All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, which will be subject to the country, role, and project you applied for. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and agree that any offer of employment may be conditional upon successful condition of this check. The Exploration Company partners with Zinc Work Limited located in the UK (Zinc), a third-party provider, to ensure this process as efficient and transparent as possible.
If applicable, you will receive an email from Zinc upon acceptance of your offer with a link to a secure portal where you can provide the required information to Zinc.