CAD Design Engineer -Thermal Protection Systems

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 looking for a CAD Design Engineer with a strong focus on Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) who will also actively support spacecraft structure design activities. The role covers preliminary to detailed design, with an emphasis on TPS - structure integration and overall vehicle coherence. 🛠️ Key Responsibilities: Contribute to the CAD design of the Thermal Protection System (TPS) using Siemens NX, from early architectural concepts to detailed definition. Support the CAD design and maturation of primary and secondary spacecraft structures, in close connection with TPS needs and constraints. Define and model TPS elements and ensure their structural integration with the vehicle. Contribute to the definition and maturation of the overall vehicle physical architecture, including aeroshape, structure, and subsystem accommodation. Iterate and mature CAD models based on thermo-mechanical analysis loops, structural analyses, material trade-offs, and system-level constraints. Ensure robust interfaces between TPS, structures, and subsystems (avionics, propulsion, mechanisms, etc.). Collaborate closely with thermal and structural analysts, materials and manufacturing engineers to converge on feasible and robust design solutions. Support material and thickness definition for both TPS and structural parts, considering thermal, mechanical, and manufacturing requirements. Maintain configuration management of CAD models and associated data. Contribute to mass estimation and tracking for TPS and structural elements, supported by the CAD models and system databases. Participate in co-engineering sessions with system, aerodynamics, GNC, propulsion, avionics, and mission analysis teams to assess feasibility, margins, and integration constraints. Define volume allocations, clearances, and interface envelopes for TPS and structural parts. Contribute to the continuous improvement of CAD methods, design rules, and integration processes. Produce technical drawings and documentation, and actively participate in design reviews (PDR, CDR, etc.). What We Would Love to See from You Qualifications: Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering, Minimum of 3 years of experience in CAD design for spacecraft structures, thermal protection systems, or closely related domains, Experience with CAD software's such as Siemens NX (preferably), Strong knowledge of aerospace vehicle design and associated challenges, Good understanding of composite material design and manufacturing, Fluent in English. German, French or Italian are an asset. Skills and Behaviors: Strong oral and written communication skills, Strong analysis and problem-solving skills, Strong organising and prioritisation of tasks, Positive and flexible attitude to get the job done, Demonstrates behaviours consistent with The Exploration Company’s core values of Vision, Mission, Teamwork, Integrity and Excellence. 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.