Turbopump AIT Engineer in Oberpfaffenhofen

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.

We are also developing different types of propulsion systems to power our future vehicles and missions. As a talented Turbopump AIT Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting the development of our turbopumps for the Storm and Typhoon engines.

Key Responsibilities / Tasks:

• Define and implement subcomponent test strategies to ensure the appropriate level of technical maturity and readiness prior to turbopump and engine-level testing.

• Design, develop, and validate test assemblies and dedicated tooling required to execute subcomponent and component-level tests effectively and safely.

• Prepare and execute assembly procedures for turbopump test articles and flight hardware, including inspection plans, propellant compatibility verification, cleanliness, FOD control requirements and design of specific means.

• Lead high-precision mechanical assembly of turbopump hardware, including bearings, rotors, stators, and seals, with controlled torque application and full traceability.

• Manage fluid interfaces and instrumentation on test articles (propellants, cooling, purge, lubrication), and provide technical inputs to support integration at turbopump and engine levels.

• Support test preparation and execution activities in close collaboration with test bench teams, ensuring smooth operations both at internal and external test facilities.

• Act as a technical interface with design engineering teams, providing feedback to optimize designs for manufacturability, assembly, integration, and testability (MAIT).

• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams and external partners, including development engineers, AIT engineers and technicians, suppliers, and test facility operators, throughout the full test campaign lifecycle.

What we would love to see from you:

• Bachelor's, master's or PhD in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field (master's and above preferred).

• 2+ years of experience in turbopump design, testing, or closely related fields (Engineer II)

• Hands‑on experience with pump or rotating machinery testing (or equivalent experimental work)

• Exposure to dynamic seals and high‑duty bearings is a strong plus

• Exposure to manufacturing processes (e.g. machining, welding, additive manufacturing, surface treatments, inspections) and their impact on tolerances and performance is highly valued

• Solid understanding of cryogenics, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics

• Familiarity with rocket propulsion and thermophysical property tools (e.g. CEA, CoolProp, RefProp)

• Experience or interest in statistical analysis and data‑driven methods (e.g. surrogate models, Bayesian approaches) is a plus

• Solution‑oriented mindset, with the creativity and curiosity to tackle complex technical challenges

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams

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?

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.

All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, which will be subject to the country, role, and project you applied for. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and agree that any offer of employment may be conditional upon successful condition of this check. The Exploration Company partners with Zinc Work Limited located in the UK (Zinc), a third-party provider, to ensure this process as efficient and transparent as possible. If applicable, you will receive an email from Zinc upon acceptance of your offer with a link to a secure portal where you can provide the required information to Zinc.

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