Propulsion GSE Team Leader

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 Ground Support Equipment Team Leader, to lead the development, commissioning and operation of our engine test benches that we use to test our cryogenic engines and storable thrusters.

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. The GSE Team Leader role for Liquid Propulsion Testing drives the end-to-end lifecycle – from initial concept and fluid/structural design to fabrication, commissioning, and operation – of critical ground infrastructure supporting liquid propellant rocket engine test campaigns.

As the GSE Team Leader, you will oversee the design, development and building of propulsion test facility. The primary objective is to develop and maintain robust, high-reliability test bench GSE that meets ambitious program cadences while ensuring absolute safety in hazardous operating environments.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the engineering development of new test facility GSE, including high-pressure gas distribution systems, propellant feed systems, electrical network, control and data acquisition system, mechanical structures, etc.

• Translate test matrix requirements into hardware specifications, master P&IDs, and fluid system architectures

• Manage a cross-functional team of mechanical, fluid, and instrumentation engineers and technicians

• Direct resource allocation across multiple test benches, manage development schedules, and ensure alignment between propulsion design teams and facility operations

• Oversee the structural fabrication, tube bending, welding, and mechanical assembly of GSE lines, panels, and thrust measurement structures

• Lead high-pressure proof testing, leak checks, and system commissioning/decommissioning phases

• Establish protocols for handling hazardous fluids (both cryogenic and storable propellants)

• Enforce strict compliance with oxygen compatibility, system passivation, and precision cleanliness levels

• Manage data acquisition and control systems (DAQ/DCS) engineers and technicians to integrate sensors (pressure transducers, thermocouples, flow meters) and remote-actuated valves into the GSE infrastructure for automated test sequences and redline monitoring

• Author structural and fluid safety calculations, hazard analyses, and standard operating procedures

• Maintain rigorous configuration control of test pad setups to ensure repeatable test conditions and audit readiness.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

• Master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering

• Equivalent technical experience with a proven track record in complex fluid systems engineering may be considered

• Minimum 5 years of experience in rocket propulsion testing, launch pad operations, or high-pressure chemical processing plants

• At least 2 years of experience leading engineering or technical teams

• Advanced proficiency in developing and interpreting complex fluid schematics (P&IDs)

• Strong working knowledge of industrial fluid component selection (valves, regulators, check valves, etc.)

• Experience with 3D CAD modeling (NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks) for GSE packaging

• Experience with fluid simulation tools

• Knowledge of precision cleaning techniques for aerospace applications

• Decisive leadership under high-pressure testing schedules

• Exceptional risk-assessment capability

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to diverse audiences

• Capacity to travel to test sites and partner facilities as required

• Fluency in English.

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.