Cryogenic Propulsion Senior Engineer [In-Orbit Refuelling]

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.

Our Future Projects unit is dedicated to expanding and complementing these capabilities by conceptualizing and pre-developing new technologies, products, and programs.

We are currently looking for a talented Cryogenic Propulsion Senior Engineer to play a key role in the design and early validation of cryogenic fluid and propulsion architectures that will enable safe, efficient refuelling operations in orbit. As a Cryogenic Propulsion Engineer, you will:

• Lead the technical design, trade studies, and feasibility assessments of cryogenic fluid transfer and storage systems operating with cryogenic propellants in microgravity.

• Work closely with the System Engineer and cross-functional specialists (thermal, GNC, software, MAIT) to ensure feasibility, safety, and performance of the propulsion system and refuelling interface.

• Contribute directly to Phase 0/A/B1 activities, including architecture trade-offs, requirement flow-down, and breadboard/test planning.

You will be part of the Future Systems team, reporting to the Lead Cryogenic Refuelling and working closely with the other engineering disciplines.

Key responsibilities:

Architecture & Requirements

o Develop concepts and preliminary architectures for cryogenic fluid transfer and storage systems in orbit.

o Define cryogenic fluid management and cryogenic refueling system-level requirements and contribute to the system requirement flow-down.

o Specify and select valves, sensors, piping, insulation, pressurization hardware, and coupling elements.

o Define and document the refuelling sequence and operational logic from a propulsion perspective.

Analysis & Simulation

o Conduct preliminary pressure drop, flow rate, and tank pressurization calculations.

o Evaluate system performance under microgravity conditions (thermal stratification, ullage, venting, etc.).

o Support transient modelling and thermodynamic behavior assessment of cryogenic fluids (liquid methane, liquid oxygen, or similar).

o Coordinate with thermal and CFD engineers for coupled analysis and modelling.

Interfaces & Integration

o Develop and maintain cryogenic fluid management and cryogenic refueling subsystem interface documents (ICDs) with system and GNC teams.

o Ensure compatibility with coupling mechanisms and system-level constraints.

o Provide technical inputs for prototyping and test planning (component and subsystem level).

Safety & Reviews

o Contribute to safety assessments related to pressurization, venting, and fluid handling.

o Support trade-off studies on architecture options (active/passive control, conditioning, vent management).

o Contributes to the preparation and presentation of technical reviews.

What we would love to see from you:

· A minimum of a master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or another related field.

· Over 5 years of experience in the aerospace industry.

· Proven experience in early development phases (Phase 0/A/B).

· Strong understanding of propulsion system design and cryogenic fluid dynamics.

· Experience with analysis tools such as EcosimPro, FLOW-3D, ANSYS, or custom Python/Matlab scripts.

· Knowledge of system safety practices, especially for high-pressure and cryogenic systems.

·Demonstrated ability to take ownership, inspire and motivate others, lead with confidence, and represent the organisation effectively at all levels.

· Fluency in English.

Desirable:

·Familiarity with relevant standards (ECSS, NASA) for fluid systems and space hardware.

·Knowledge of German, French and/or Italian.

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.