ManagerThe future of space travel is no longer a distant dream – it’s being built today, piece by piece, by forward-thinking companies like The Exploration Company (TEC). Positioned at the cutting edge of aerospace innovation, TEC is rapidly redefining how the world approaches orbital missions through its flagship project, Nyx – a modular, reusable space vehicle engineered to transport cargo and eventually, humans.
But what makes Nyx revolutionary isn’t just its reusable architecture; it’s also the sophisticated ecosystem of technology that powers it – particularly its state-of-the-art propulsion systems.
These systems are the beating heart of every space-bound mission, ensuring that spacecraft not only lift off but complete their journeys with precision, reliability and safety. And behind these powerful systems lies a team of dedicated engineers and specialists working tirelessly to source, design and integrate every vital component.
Among these critical contributors is the Procurement Engineer for Fluid Components – a pivotal role that combines deep technical knowledge with strategic supplier management. In a world where every bolt, sensor and valve must meet uncompromising standards, this role ensures that all fluidic components – be it filters, pressure sensors or valves – are sourced, vetted and delivered with precision.
Whether it’s supporting the propulsion systems during development or ensuring on-time delivery during flight production, the Procurement Engineer is essential in aligning mission objectives with high-performance hardware. More than a technical liaison, this person acts as a bridge between visionary spacecraft engineering and real-world component manufacturing.
This position is based in Planegg, Germany, at the heart of TEC’s operations and offers more than just a traditional engineering job – it’s an invitation to actively participate in shaping the infrastructure of tomorrow’s space economy. TEC is offering a full-time opportunity with a competitive benefits package, including relocation support and visa sponsorship, for qualified candidates willing to bring their expertise and passion for aerospace engineering into a fast-paced and mission-driven environment.
For engineers eager to contribute to something truly meaningful and transformative, this role is more than a career move – it’s a professional calling.
What sets The Exploration Company apart isn’t just its innovation, but its culture. Agile in decision-making, collaborative in execution and open in communication, TEC fosters an environment where every team member is empowered to think big and act boldly. The company thrives on transparency, cross-functional teamwork and shared excitement for making space more accessible.
If you’re passionate about pushing technological limits, solving real-world engineering challenges and being part of a vibrant, interdisciplinary team that’s building the future of orbital infrastructure – this is your launchpad.
Whether you’re an experienced procurement engineer looking for your next challenge or an aerospace professional with a background in liquid propulsion systems and component sourcing, TEC welcomes talent that thrives in high-stakes, high-reward environments. The role of Procurement Engineer for Fluid Components is uniquely suited for individuals who possess not only technical rigor but also a strategic mindset, capable of aligning suppliers, systems and teams for seamless execution.
If you’re ready to move beyond conventional engineering roles and become a core part of a company that’s democratizing space – then this opportunity is for you. Apply now and be part of a mission that’s already making history.
Employment Type
Full-Time Role
Location of Employment
Planegg, Germany
Employee Benefits
Support with Relocation Costs
At The Exploration Company, we’re boldly reshaping the future of space exploration through the development, production and operation of Nyx – our innovative, modular and reusable orbital spacecraft. Nyx is engineered with the vision to be refueled while in orbit and is designed to transport cargo, with aspirations of enabling human travel in future missions.
Our Mission and Why This Role Matters
A spacecraft’s propulsion system is, quite literally, its driving force. It forms the technological heart of any orbital vehicle. At The Exploration Company (TEC), we are on a mission to craft the most reliable, advanced and high-performance propulsion systems on the market.
This focus on excellence ensures that every mission we undertake pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in space travel.
As we gear up to scale our projects, we are actively seeking a Procurement Engineer specializing in Fluid Components to play a pivotal role in our engineering and mission operations. This position places you at the heart of our procurement processes, ensuring the optimal sourcing of critical fluid system components such as filters, manual valves and pressure sensors, which are essential for both development and operational flight stages of Nyx.
You will work hand-in-hand with our engineering and production teams and report directly to the Principal Engineer for Procured Propulsion Units. Your job will not only involve managing supplier relationships but also ensuring the perfect alignment of technical and operational standards – ensuring that all components meet cost, schedule and quality requirements.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
1. Technical Leadership and Systems Collaboration
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Take charge of shaping and continuously improving the technical framework for all fluidic components.
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Collaborate closely with diverse internal teams – including system engineering, avionics, vehicle architecture and Assembly, Integration and Testing (AIT) – to define component requirements and verification strategies.
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Establish product architectures, interface specifications (fluidic, mechanical, thermal, electrical and data) and performance benchmarks tailored to the Nyx spacecraft.
2. Active Engineering and Integration Support
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Provide in-depth technical input to core engineering teams involved in the development of the Nyx Earth capsule.
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Special emphasis on fluid component interfaces to ensure seamless integration across mechanical and software systems.
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Serve as a go-to expert for evaluating component compatibility, especially in dynamic environments and during iterative design changes.
3. Supplier Evaluation and Product Selection
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Lead rigorous assessments of existing fluidic component solutions available in the market.
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Actively participate in the vetting and selection of top-tier fluid component manufacturers and suppliers to support Nyx Earth’s design goals and reliability requirements.
4. Supplier Oversight and Strategic Communication
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Serve as the principal liaison between TEC and its network of global fluidic component suppliers.
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Build and maintain effective, results-driven supplier relationships based on mutual respect, transparency and performance.
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Ensure suppliers fully understand and meet TEC’s technical and programmatic benchmarks, including delivery timelines and cost targets.
5. Monitoring and Quality Assurance in Production
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Track supplier progress during both the development phase and final production of flight-ready components.
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Introduce and maintain robust tracking and reporting systems for supplier milestones to ensure punctuality, budget compliance and performance assurance.
6. Validation of Supplier Deliverables
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Rigorously review and sign off on supplier-provided documentation, simulations, mathematical models and hardware submissions.
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Participate in design reviews and various gate reviews including Test Readiness Reviews (TRR) and Test Review Boards (TRB) to uphold technical integrity.
7. AIT Support and Operational Integration
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Aid the AIT team in preparing, assembling and testing fluidic components during both development and flight qualification phases.
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Validate assembly procedures and test protocols, monitor actual test performance and contribute to rapid troubleshooting of non-conformances.
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Act as a technical anchor in ensuring every system functions seamlessly in the propulsion integration pipeline.
8. Flight Preparation and Operational Analysis
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Play a key role in flight readiness by supporting the development of operational procedures and conducting pre-flight simulations or rehearsals.
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Participate directly in launch operations and post-launch analysis.
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Diagnose and resolve any fluid system anomalies that may arise during mission execution.
Preferred Qualifications and Professional Background
What We’re Looking For in an Ideal Candidate:
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A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field. A Master’s degree is highly desirable.
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At least two years of hands-on experience in managing procurement and global supplier relations, particularly for spacecraft propulsion systems.
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Proven expertise in liquid and gas-based fluid components – including deep familiarity with the design, fabrication and testing of pressure sensors, manual valves and filters.
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Strong organizational and leadership capabilities to manage globally distributed suppliers and lead multi-party communication efficiently.
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A strong track record of cross-functional collaboration, particularly in fluid systems integration and problem-solving during development cycles.
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Professional-level fluency in English is essential, as it is the primary working language at TEC.
Why Work With Us at The Exploration Company?
Our team and mission are what set us apart – and we think you’ll feel the same way once you join us.
1. Agile Work Culture
We believe in swift decision-making that balances technical depth with strategic execution. At TEC, bureaucracy is minimized so we can focus on what truly matters – delivering results and building the future of orbital travel.
2. Open Communication and Team Synergy
Transparency is the cornerstone of how we operate. Whether it’s identifying risks, highlighting design challenges or celebrating milestones – we communicate openly so that all hands are on deck when solving complex problems.
3. A Fun, Purpose-Driven Mission
We’re not just building another spacecraft – we’re working to democratize access to space. This is a rare and exciting journey and we make sure that our workplace reflects the passion and energy that come with that goal. You’ll find camaraderie, laughter and purpose in everything we do.
Diversity and Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
At The Exploration Company, we believe in the strength of diversity. Our hiring process and workplace culture are rooted in inclusivity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, age, nationality, disability or sexual orientation.
Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned professional, if you’re passionate about space and want to make a difference – you’re welcome here.
Relocation and Sponsorship Information
We understand the global nature of talent acquisition and are fully prepared to assist successful applicants with relocation support, including help with moving expenses. Visa sponsorships are available for eligible international candidates who wish to relocate and work from our Planegg location.
Join the Mission – Apply Now
If the idea of working on one of the most exciting space missions of this decade thrills you, we want to hear from you! Submit your updated CV today and take the first step toward becoming a part of The Exploration Company’s dynamic and future-focused team.
We review applications regularly and will reach out to qualified candidates for the next steps in the hiring process.
Manager