Valves Design Engineer

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.

The heart of a spacecraft lies in its engine, and that's why we, at The Exploration Company, are dedicated to developing our own cutting-edge Propulsion Systems ensuring the highest level of efficiency and reliability in our space endeavours.

We are seeking a talented Valves Cryogenic Design Engineer to join our propulsion systems division. As a key member of our engineering team, you will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing valve systems for cryogenic rocket engines.

Key Responsibilities

As the Valves Cryogenic Design Engineer, your responsibilities will include:

• Lead the design and develop cryogenic valves for rocket engine applications.

• Conduct engineering analyses, including fluid dynamics, structural integrity, and thermal performance assessments.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate valves systems into overall engine architectures.

• Evaluate and select the appropriate valve actuation mode (pneumatic vs. electric) based on performance requirements, operational parameters, and environmental constraints.

• Design valve actuation systems, including pneumatic or electric actuators, solenoids, and control circuits, to achieve optimal valve performance.

• Optimize performance, efficiency, and reliability of valves designs through iterative modeling and testing.

• Ensure compliance with technical specifications, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.

• Support manufacturing, assembly, and testing activities, providing technical expertise and troubleshooting as needed.

• Manage subcontractors involved in specific design and manufacturing aspects, ensuring quality, schedule adherence, and cost control.

• Participate in design reviews, project planning, and documentation of design iterations and improvements.

What we would love to see from you

In the role of Valves Cryogenic Design Engineer ideally, you will have the following:

• Master’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, or related field; advanced degree (Masters or PhD) preferred.

• Proven experience (5+ years) in valves design in cryogenic environments.

• Hands-on experience developing hardware from concept to working prototypes.

• Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, materials science, and manufacturing processes relevant to cryogenic applications.

• Experience with pneumatic and/or electric actuation systems, including knowledge of pneumatic control systems and electric motor control.

• Experience with materials selection for cryogenic applications and knowledge of relevant manufacturing processes.

• Experience performing valves mechanical analyses (structural and modal).

• Knowledge of valves assembly procedures, including interference fits, clearance checks, structural proofing, and leak checks.

• Experience using CAD to design parts/assemblies is an asset.

• Fluent in English. Italian is an asset.

Skills and Behaviours:

• Ability to work equally well unsupervised or as part of a team

• Strong organising and prioritisation of tasks

• Positive and flexible attitude to get the job done

• Ability to communicate at all levels of the business

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.