Project Manager - Critical Mechanisms

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 we are working on the detailed design of our Nyx Earth version, which will dock to the space stations around the Earth, we are currently seeking a Project Manager to manage Critical Mechanisms in the execution of the Earth Missions.

We are looking for a highly experienced, dynamic and skilled Project Manager to execute our contracts with the highest standards of schedule, cost and risk tracking.

You and the Program team will interact with highly skilled people composed of Technical, Operations, Quality and Procurement Leads, with the common goal of delivering on time, on cost and on quality the vehicles and associated services.

We expect you to have the most detailed knowledge of the schedule and cost status, with a clear understanding of the technical progress status, to make sure that the activities prioritization is fully in line with the goals set by the Chief Program Officer for your perimeter.

We expect you to push and challenge the team in the most constructive way to support them in giving their best to meet the company goals, while listening to their needs and finding compromises.

*Qualified candidates working remotely from Belgium may be considered for this position.  

You will closely monitor the risks of the projects to anticipate and avoid potential crisis.

You will report to the Chief Program Officer of the company, who is also the Program Manager for Nyx Earth.

Key responsibilities:

In your capacity as a Nyx Earth Mechanism Project Manager , your role will be continuously evolving, but day to day your duties will include:

• Project leadership:

  • Lead and manage, providing guidance, motivation, and strategic direction.

  • Define project goals, scope, and deliverables in collaboration with key stakeholders.

• Technical oversight:

  • Build the work logic, including the development and qualification approach in collaboration with the system technical responsible

  • Frequent travel to Belgium

  • Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure compliance with technical specifications and project requirements

  • Monitor technological advancements and integrate innovative solutions into the project.

• Budget and resource management:

  • Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring efficient resource allocation.

  • Work closely with finance and procurement teams to acquire necessary resources and materials.

• Timeline and milestone tracking:

  • Develop and maintain a detailed project timeline, setting clear milestones and deadlines.

  • Regularly monitor progress, identifying potential risks, and implementing corrective actions as needed.

• Collaboration and communication:

  • Foster effective communication within the project team and with external stakeholders.

  • Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including mission control, ground operations, and external partners.

• Regulatory compliance:

  • Ensure adherence to all relevant space exploration regulations and standards.

  • Collaborate with legal and compliance teams to address any regulatory issues.

• Risk management:

  • Identify and assess project risks, developing mitigation strategies to minimize potential obstacles.

  • Implement proactive measures to address unforeseen challenges and ensure project success.

• Quality assurance:

  • In collaboration with the quality responsible, establish and enforce rigorous quality control processes to ensure the reliability and safety of the orbital space vehicle.

  • Collaborate with quality assurance teams to implement best practices.

• Documentation:

  • Maintain comprehensive project documentation, including design specifications, test plans, and progress reports.

  • Ensure all project-related information is well-documented for future reference.

  • Implement a thorough deliverable management process

What we would love to see from you:

• Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering

• Space Mechanism project experience is essential

• 6+ years experience in Project management

• Proven experience managing complex space exploration mechanism projects

• Strong technical background in spacecraft design and space systems engineering.

• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and manage multidisciplinary teams.

• Demonstrated experience in budget management, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.

• Knowledge of relevant space exploration regulations and standards.

• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

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.