Future Program Procurement

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.

One of the other core missions of the Exploration Company is to develop, manufacture and certify disruptive propulsion systems.

In collaboration with many partners and the support of ESA, The Exploration Company has been developing several types of engine.

We want you as a talented and experienced Propulsion Procurement Engineer. You will be part of the Future Programs Procurement Team, reporting to the Procurement Manager Future Programs. You will work closely with the respective Engineering Project Managers and with the related engineering teams.

Key Responsibilities

In your capacity as Propulsion Procurement Manager your role will continuously evolve, but initially your day-to-day duties will include:

• Work closely with the internal customers/engineering teams on developments

• Sourcing, supplier selection and trade off (risk management, sourcing board) for critical and strategic components/sub assembles and services

• Cost Negotiation & contract

• Administrative tasks in the IT tools (NDA, PO)

• Supplier Relationship management: OTD & OTQ follow up

• Budget Management & Cost Tracking (Have the Financial overview under control and that you can report at any time the Actuals & Forecast and compare that against the EAC)

What we would love to see from you

In the role as Propulsion Procurement Manager ideally, you will have the following:

• Master’s degree or equivalent in a technical/engineering

• 3+ years of experience in the aerospace sector

• Experience procurement / purchasing processes within a technical context

• Minimum 3 years' experience with any Enterprise Resource Management (ERP) software

• Proven track record of ability to work autonomously under pressure and manage conflicting priorities

• Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English, at least one other TEC languages would be appreciated (French, Italian, German)

• Quick learner and adaptable to new challenges

• Independent thinker and problem solver

• Only applicants from NATO friendly countries can be considered.

Skills and Behaviors

Hard Skills

• Negotiation skills: Secure deals and optimize savings through effective contract negotiation with suppliers.

• Analytical skills: Make informed decisions, evaluate supplier performance, and conduct cost-benefit analyses

• Risk management: Identify and address supply chain risks for uninterrupted goods/services supply.

• Knowledge of export control regulations, including European dual-use, EAR, ITAR (US)

• Contract management: Possess a legal understanding to manage contracts, terms, conditions, and dispute resolution.

• Project management skills: Plan, execute, and monitor procurement projects for effective sourcing.

• Financial understanding: Working knowledge of financial principles, budgeting, and cost analysis for cost optimization.

• Strong oral and written communication skills

• Strong analysis and problem-solving skills

• Strong organizing and prioritization of tasks

Soft Skills

• Strong adaptability to large scope of technical commodities

• Positive and flexible attitude to get the job done

• Ability to communicate at all levels of the business

• Demonstrates behaviours consistent with The Exploration Company’s core values of Mission, Vision, Integrity, Excellence and Teamwork

• Space enthusiast: ready to change the global space industry

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.