Nyx Crew Propulsion Systems Lead

The Exploration Company•Houston, TX

About The Position

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.

Requirements

B.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical Design, Engineering, Engineering Technology, or similar related discipline
10+ years of relevant engineering experience. Relevant advanced degrees will be considered in lieu of equivalent experience.
Demonstrated experience designing, analyzing, integrating, and testing propulsion systems and components for space vehicles.
Working knowledge of propulsion system architectures and operations.
Demonstrated experience in developing human rated systems.
Working knowledge of hypergolic propellants, propellant management devices, throttle control, pressure control systems, and fluid flow and controls.
Knowledge of environmental testing, such as vibration, shock, acoustic, and/or vacuum.
Experience working with external customers such as commercial companies and government agencies (NASA, AFRL, DARPA, etc.) and component suppliers.
Due to federal regulations (e.g., ITAR/EAR), applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (e.g., current Green Card holders).

Responsibilities

Lead the conceptual and detailed design, development and test of a hypergolic propulsion system including engines, valves, propellant feed systems, tanks, and pressurization systems for a crewed space vehicle.
Support vehicle-level system trade studies.
Ensure rigorous integration across propulsion and other systems including structures, avionics, and operations. Lead technical reviews and arbitrate complex propulsion system trades.
Review and perform analysis including first order sizing and specification of propulsion systems and propulsion system components, instrumentation, pressure vessels and/or fluid systems.
Review and develop first order propellant budgets, including other associated budgets, such as pressurants.
Oversee the planning and execution of the propulsion system and component development, ensuring the project is completed on time, within budget, and compliant to requirements.
Lead the planning and execution for component and integrated system testing
Build, lead, manage and direct the team of propulsion engineers, technicians, and external partners and suppliers, providing guidance and support when needed.