Propulsion GSE Team Leader Verified today
The Exploration Company is building Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that carries cargo and will eventually be refueled in orbit.
We seek an experienced Propulsion Ground Support Equipment Team Leader to lead the development, commissioning and operation of our engine test benches for cryogenic engines and storable thrusters.
This is a key leadership role requiring technical expertise in liquid-propellant propulsion systems, a strong track record managing complex engineering projects, and proven experience leading technical teams. You will drive the end-to-end lifecycle of critical ground infrastructure from initial concept and fluid/structural design through fabrication, commissioning, and operation.
Your responsibilities
- Lead the engineering development of new test facility GSE, including high-pressure gas distribution systems, propellant feed systems, electrical networks, control and data acquisition systems, and mechanical structures
- Translate test matrix requirements into hardware specifications, master P&IDs, and fluid system architectures
- Manage a cross-functional team of mechanical, fluid, and instrumentation engineers and technicians
- Direct resource allocation across multiple test benches, manage development schedules, and ensure alignment between propulsion design teams and facility operations
- Oversee structural fabrication, tube bending, welding, and mechanical assembly of GSE lines, panels, and thrust measurement structures
- Lead high-pressure proof testing, leak checks, and system commissioning/decommissioning phases
- Establish protocols for handling hazardous fluids (cryogenic and storable propellants)
- Enforce strict compliance with oxygen compatibility, system passivation, and precision cleanliness levels
- Manage data acquisition and control systems engineers to integrate sensors and remote-actuated valves for automated test sequences and redline monitoring
- Author structural and fluid safety calculations, hazard analyses, and standard operating procedures
- Maintain rigorous configuration control of test pad setups for repeatable test conditions and audit readiness
Required qualifications
- Master's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering, or equivalent technical experience with proven track record in complex fluid systems engineering
- Minimum 5 years of experience in rocket propulsion testing, launch pad operations, or high-pressure chemical processing plants
- At least 2 years of experience leading engineering or technical teams
- Advanced proficiency in developing and interpreting complex fluid schematics (P&IDs)
- Strong working knowledge of industrial fluid component selection (valves, regulators, check valves, etc.)
- Experience with 3D CAD modeling (NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks) for GSE packaging
- Experience with fluid simulation tools
- Knowledge of precision cleaning techniques for aerospace applications
- Decisive leadership under high-pressure testing schedules
- Exceptional risk-assessment capability
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Capacity to travel to test sites and partner facilities as required
- Fluency in English
Background check required as applicable to country, role, and project.