Power Electronics Engineer

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.

The heart of this spacecraft lies in its propulsion system, and that's why we are dedicated to developing our own cutting-edge cryogenic propulsion systems.

We are seeking a Power Electronics Engineer to join our Huracan propulsion team. In this role, you will be responsible for the development and testing of pump-drive inverters for a cryogenic rocket engine including control/driver boards and batteries.

You will also collaborate with a diverse team of engineers (e.g. hardware, control, software, mechatronics, and mechanical) working on different topics to ensure successful integration and operation of these hardware elements within our cryogenic engine.

We want you to help us in our mission by supporting the commissioning, troubleshooting and further improvement of the above-mentioned power electronics system. This is a hands-on position that demands technical expertise, problem-solving skills, work in the lab, and a proactive approach to ensure the success of our testing and development efforts.

Key Responsibilities

• Improving/finalizing schematic and layout of respective power and control boards.

• Performing bring-up, lab tests and troubleshooting of power electronics systems in-house or at external labs.

• Supporting other engineers in optimizing the design.

• Preparing test and technical reports and contributing to the development of operating procedures.

• Ensuring or enhancing the performance and safety of our test benches.
  

What we would love to see from you

• BSc or higher degree in electrical engineering or (power) electronics.

• 2+ years of experience in hardware development and/or troubleshooting, preferably in aerospace, avionics, automotive or other high-reliability applications.

• 2+ years of experience with power electronics systems, preferably with drive or traction inverters.

• Experience with Altium Designer and simulation software like PLECS, Matlab/Simulink, LTspice or similar.

• Understanding of power electronics principles, SiC semiconductors, gate drivers, and thermal management.

• Experience and readiness to work in a power electronics lab (e.g. soldering, rework, electrical/thermal measurements, preparation of test setups and reports, etc.).

• Knowledge of electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, lab equipment and tools.

• Desired: experience with (Power) HIL prototyping including battery and motor emulators, thermal chamber tests, EMC pre-compliance tests and EMI standards.

• Desired: familiarity with radiation hardness and mitigation for electronic systems.

• Desired: understanding of space-relevant standards (like ECSS, MIL-STD, NASA-HBK) and regulations.

• Positive and flexible attitude in a constantly evolving environment.

• Getting the job done.

• Problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Detail-oriented and committed to maintaining high safety and quality standards.

• Ability to communicate effectively (oral and written) with colleagues and partners in English. Other languages like French or German are advantageous.

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.