AIT Thermal/ECLSS Team Leader

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 seeking an experienced AIT Thermal/ECLSS Team Leader to lead our dynamic AIT thermal/ECLSS team.

In this role, you will be responsible for the planning and execution of thermal/ECLSS integration and testing for Nyx Earth, starting from sub-system level thermal and ECLSS test campaigns. You are requested to lead a small team.

This is a unique opportunity to play a hands-on role in testing and qualifying critical space systems in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.

You will report to the AIT Mechanical Principal Engineer.

Key responsibilities:

• Integration & Test Planning:

Design and plan thermal EVT (environment test) campaign at system/capsule level.

Design and plan all thermal/ECLSS activities at sub-system levels (cold plate qualification, Pressure Compartment System, Ventilation system, etc..) for system and sub-system level.

Support the preparation of engineering drawings for manufacture of test bench components.

Lead team and activities to have a succesful integration of the Thermal system in the Capsule.

• Hardware Management:

Define and manage flight hardware interfaces during integration (pipes, fittings, valves, MLI, heaters, sensors, harness routing, thermal fillers, etc.).

Design the 3D setup of test activities and build test setup.

Procure test parts and write/execute procedures for all test activities.

• Test Execution:

Plan, define, prepare, execute, and oversee thermal/ECLSS tests in coordination with internal and external test facilities.

• Data Analysis & Reporting:

Provide test results and generate comprehensive test reports.

Support in correlate and validate models in collaboration with engineering team.

• Cross-functional Collaboration:

Work closely with the design office and systems engineering to ensure design meets flight qualification standards.

Improve the processes and procedure with the lessons learned of the previous operations.

Support the team in other factory setup as we are a growing company, the perimeter can evolve along the mission.

• Compliance & Safety:

Ensure all testing activities comply with spaceflight standards and internal quality/safety protocols.

What we would love to see from you:

• A minimum of a MSc degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Physics, or related field.

• Over 5 years of relevant experience in testing or integration in the aerospace sector.

• Strong understanding of spacecraft thermal control systems, ECLSS systems, and test methodologies.

• Hands-on experience with TVAC chambers, thermal cycling equipment, sensor systems and test bench setup, including pipe bending.

• Familiarity with instrumentation (thermocouples, RTDs, thermal blankets, heaters, pressure sensors, actuators, etc.).

• Experience in writing and executing test procedures and managing test campaigns.

• Experience with CAD software preferably with Siemens NX

• Experience in managing a small team.

• Excellent problem-solving skills, autonomy, and attention to detail.

• Fluency in English.

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.


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.