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.

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 which carries cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run.

Join us on our journey as a talented MAIT mechanical laboratory Engineer to help us in our mission by establishing and managing our new mechanical laboratory in The Exploration Company.

Your expertise will allow us to internalize the tests that we have to subcontract currently. This state-of-the-art lab will initially focus on mechanical characterization, particularly for the qualification and analysis of 3D printed parts. As the lab evolves, it will expand to include environmental testing capabilities, such as thermal vacuum testing and sine vibration testing, to assess electronic equipment and mid-size subsystems.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the entire setup, operation, and continuous improvement of the laboratory. This includes selecting and commissioning equipment, developing testing protocols, and ensuring that the lab meets industry standards. The role will involve close collaboration with design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to ensure that the testing and analysis performed in the lab align with the company's production and development goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Laboratory Setup & Implementation:

  • Plan, design, and implement a new laboratory focused on mechanical characterisation of materials, especially 3D printed parts.

  • Select and procure laboratory equipment and tools, including devices for mechanical testing (tensile, compression, hardness testing) and metallographic analysis (microscopy, sample preparation tools).

  • Establish and optimize laboratory workflows, procedures, and safety protocols.

• Mechanical Characterisation:

  • Perform mechanical tests to characterise the properties of 3D printed and other materials, including tensile strength, hardness, and fatigue testing.

  • Conduct metallographic examinations to analyse material microstructures, defects, and failure modes.

  • Interpret test results and provide detailed reports to support design and manufacturing processes.

• Environmental Testing (Phase 2):

  • Oversee the expansion of the lab to include environmental testing capabilities, including thermal vacuum chambers and sine vibration test benches.

  • Develop and implement protocols for thermal and vibration testing of electronic components and mid-sized subsystems.

  • Ensure that all environmental tests comply with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements.

• Collaboration & Communication:

  • Work closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to define testing requirements and ensure that laboratory capabilities align with company needs.

  • Provide technical support and training to internal teams regarding laboratory equipment and testing methods.

  • Present findings and recommendations to senior management and other stakeholders.

• Continuous Improvement:

  • Monitor and analyse test data to identify areas for improvement in material properties and production processes.

  • Stay updated on industry trends, advancements in testing technologies, and regulatory changes to ensure the lab remains state-of-the-art.

  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance laboratory efficiency, accuracy, and safety.

  • Support the growth of the lab and ultimately manage a small team of technician

Qualifications:

• Education:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.

• Experience:

  • Proven experience in setting up a mechanical testing laboratory or some of the assets in the lab.

  • Hands-on experience with mechanical characterisation techniques, particularly for 3D printed materials.

  • Experience with metallographic analysis and environmental testing (thermal and vibration) is highly desirable.

• Skills:

  • Strong understanding of mechanical testing principles and techniques.

  • Proficiency with laboratory equipment, including tensile testing machines, hardness testers, and metallographic analysis tools.

  • Familiarity with environmental testing standards and equipment (thermal vacuum chambers, sine vibration test benches).

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

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.