Chief Engineer - High Thrust Engine Expert

The role

The Chief Engineer will lead the technical vision, architecture, and strategic direction of the Storm high-thrust cryogenic rocket engine program. This person serves as the senior technical authority to ensure system-level integrity and mission success.

What you will do

• Define and communicate the technical vision and roadmap for the Storm propulsion system.
• Serve as the primary owner of the Storm system architecture.
• Lead technical reviews and arbitrate complex system trade-offs.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to the team.
• Identify, assess, and manage technical risks at the system level.
• Lead critical design and readiness reviews.
• Approve all non-conformance waivers or design deviations.
• Support business development, partner engagement, and customer interactions.
• Coordinate with the Storm Lead on technical milestones, test readiness, and risk assessments.
• Drive continuous improvement in engineering tools, methodologies, and team capability.

Required qualifications

• Master's degree in propulsion engineering, systems engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• Over 15 years of experience in liquid rocket engine development.
• Experience in at least one full-scale or prototype program.
• Experience in production/industrialisation.
• Deep understanding of cryogenic propulsion systems, including design, integration, and test.
• Proven track record of defining and delivering complex aerospace systems from concept through flight.
• Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary technical teams and arbitrate complex design trades.
• Demonstrated experience managing system-level requirements, interfaces, and verification activities.
• Experience in engine hot-fire testing and anomaly resolution.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Fluency in English.

Nice to have

• Experience collaborating with European space agencies.
• Proven ability to work with geographically distributed teams and coordinating with external partners or suppliers.

Benefits

• Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.

Before you apply

• Relocation assistance and visa sponsorship may be provided where applicable.
• All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

About the company

The Exploration Company is building spacecraft for humanity.