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The Exploration Company is building innovative aerospace technologies for next-generation space transportation, including Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle. We seek a Mechanical Technician specializing in Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) to support the manufacturing, integration, inspection, and qualification of thermal protection systems for our next-generation capsule.
In this role, you will be responsible for assembling and integrating TPS hardware, including skin panels, access panels, TPS tiles, and associated mechanical interfaces. You will perform adhesive bonding, injection, painting, and other manufacturing processes according to qualified procedures. Your duties include executing dimensional and visual inspections before, during, and after manufacturing and integration activities, supporting non-destructive inspection (NDI) activities, and assisting in the interpretation and reporting of inspection results.
You will manufacture, assemble, and maintain dedicated tooling, fixtures, and MGSE required for TPS activities. You will support the preparation, execution, and documentation of qualification, development, and production campaigns, maintain manufacturing records, complete production documentation, and ensure full traceability of hardware and materials. You will identify anomalies during manufacturing or integration activities and support troubleshooting, rework, and continuous process improvement. All activities must be performed in compliance with safety regulations, cleanliness requirements, and company procedures.
You will work in collaboration with AIT mechanical and GSE teams, in close relationship with other mechanical technicians and under the supervision of MAIT mechanical engineers. You may also support other AIT assembly activities in collaboration with AIT Propulsion, AIT Thermal, and AIT FGSE engineers.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Mechanical or Electro-mechanical degree as a technician or Bachelor (2 years after high school)
- 3+ years of experience in welding
- Knowledge of ESA and NASA quality and safety standards
- Experience with CFRP structures or composite materials
- Experience with adhesive dispensing or painting processes
- Familiarity with cleanroom or controlled manufacturing environments
- Experience using metrology equipment or NDI techniques
- Basic knowledge of aerospace quality standards and traceability requirements
- Plus: experience with aluminum orbital welding
- Preferred: 2–3 years of previous experience in building space vehicles
SKILLS AND BEHAVIORS:
- Strong organizing and prioritization of tasks
- Positive and flexible attitude to get the job done
- Rigorous attention to detail and traceability
- Problem solver, proactive but collaborative
- Demonstrates commitment, innovation, trust, quality, and teamwork