Valves Design Engineer - Typhoon

at  The Exploration Company

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.

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

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.

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