Joblaze summary

The Vacuum Hotfire Test Stand Engineer at The Exploration Company plays a crucial role in developing and operating a test facility for storable propulsion systems, focusing on the design, assembly, and safety of the setup. This position requires expertise in fluid and pressurized systems, along with hands-on experience in propulsion test benches, particularly with legacy propellants. Ideal candidates will have a background in aerospace or mechanical engineering and strong communication skills to collaborate with various stakeholders. The company emphasizes agility and collaboration, fostering an environment where innovation thrives.

Joblaze insights

Listed about 2 months ago — first seen on Joblaze September 3, 2026. Last confirmed on The Exploration Company's careers page November 2, 2026.
data acquisition appears in 0.4% of 4943 comparable mid other roles; propulsion appears in 0.1% of 4943 comparable mid other roles.

Quick facts

How much experience is required?: At least 2 years of relevant experience for this Vacuum Hotfire Test Stand Engineer role.
What's the tech stack?: Joblaze extracted these technologies from the posting: Control Systems, data acquisition, hazard analysis, propulsion, test facility.
Does The Exploration Company sponsor work visas for this role?: Yes — the posting indicates visa sponsorship is available for the right candidate.
What seniority level is this role?: The Exploration Company targets mid-level candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?: Full-time for this Vacuum Hotfire Test Stand Engineer role at The Exploration Company.

From the original posting

We are also developing advanced propulsion capabilities to support our reusable spacecraft programs. We are building a dedicated test capability for storable, hypergolic propulsion systems in the 100–800 N class.

As the Vacuum Hotfire Test Stand Engineer, you will be part of the team that develops the propulsion test facility for legacy propellants (e.g., MON-class oxidizers and MMH-type fuels), from requirements definition through commissioning and operating the test facility. You will be part of the team that develops, commissions and operates the test facility.

Key Responsibilities / Tasks

Design of Test Facility

Supporting development of a vacuum hot fire test facility which will be used to develop and qualify orbital thrusters - in tandem with the main designer/team leader
Translate propulsion test needs into facility, utilities, and ground support equipment requirements
Define instrumentation, data acquisition, and control systems for safe hot-fire testing.
Interface effectively with internal engineering teams, customers, and external partners.

Assembly & Integration of Test Facility

Manage suppliers and manufacturing activities; support in integration and verification.
Support planning and execute commissioning, acceptance testing, and entry-into-service activities.

Safety & Operation of Test Facility

Support hazard analyses (FMEA, HAZOP, risk assessments) and implement mitigation measures.
Develop procedures for handling, testing, maintenance, and emergency response.
Integration of thruster into test bench
Support operations of test facility and perform hot fire, cold flows, decontamination and maintenance activities
Perform maintenance activities of the test facility

Degree in aerospace, propulsion system, mechanical, chemical engineering, or a related discipline.
2+ years of hands-on experience with propulsion test benches, preferably with storable/legacy propellants.
Strong background in fluid systems, pressurized systems, and ground support equipment.
Knowledge of safety-critical systems, industrial automation, and test operations.
Excellent communication skills across technical and non-technical stakeholders.

We’re Agile - we make decisions fast whilst keeping our goals and systems in mind

Standard company text repeated across The Exploration Company's postings is omitted here.

Vacuum Hotfire Test Stand Engineer

Key Responsibilities / Tasks

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