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The Exploration Company is developing Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle designed for cargo transport and eventual human spaceflight. We are seeking a Deputy Chief Engineer to lead the design, integration, and testing of our next-generation high-thrust cryogenic rocket engine (LOX/LCH4 propellant).
You will report directly to the Storm Chief Engineer and serve as their technical deputy, owning engine-level system design and the turbomachinery domain end-to-end—from architecture definition through hot-fire testing. Your responsibilities span detailed engine system design (cycle definition, propellant supply, ignition, subsystem interfaces), turbopump design and integration (rotordynamics, bearings, seals, hydraulic and thermal design), and leadership of comprehensive test campaigns from component-level rigs through full engine hot-fire validation.
You will ensure technical integrity and safety throughout the engine lifecycle, lead multi-disciplinary teams, mentor junior engineers, identify and manage technical risks, and deputize for the Chief Engineer on day-to-day technical arbitration and external partner coordination. The role demands deep expertise in cryogenic propulsion systems, proven experience taking turbomachinery from concept through detailed design and testing, and the ability to balance engineering excellence with delivery efficiency under schedule and cost pressure.
Required qualifications include a master's degree in propulsion, mechanical, or aerospace engineering; 10+ years in liquid rocket engine development with significant depth in engine systems and/or turbomachinery; hands-on experience in hot-fire testing and anomaly resolution; and fluency in English. You should be analytical, collaborative, adaptable, and comfortable working with geographically distributed teams.
