The aerospace industry is entering a bold new chapter, one where reusable spacecraft and sustainable space operations are no longer theoretical – they’re being engineered right now. At the forefront of this transformation is The Exploration Company, a visionary enterprise committed to developing Nyx, a revolutionary modular orbital vehicle designed for reusability and in-orbit refuelling.
With the capacity to transport cargo – and eventually humans – Nyx is redefining how we think about long-term missions and commercial access to space. As part of this ambitious endeavor, the company is building every system from the ground up including its own cryogenic propulsion technology. And at the very heart of this effort lies the need for precise, reliable and innovative power electronics solutions.
That’s where the Power Electronics Engineer steps in. This isn’t just a role – it’s a mission-critical position that directly impacts how Nyx performs in some of the most extreme environments known to man. From developing the inverters that power cryogenic pump drives to working on control boards and battery systems, the engineer in this role helps translate electrical theory into hardware that must function flawlessly in orbit. It’s an opportunity to go far beyond conventional engineering by contributing to the future of space transportation. The job is intensely hands-on, involving both intricate hardware development and real-time troubleshooting in state-of-the-art lab environments.
What sets this position apart is the collaborative culture that surrounds it. Engineers work side-by-side with specialists across domains – mechanical, software, thermal and control – to create integrated systems capable of withstanding the demands of rocket propulsion. Rather than working in isolated silos, every contributor is embedded in the mission’s bigger picture.
This interconnectedness fosters not only a more robust engineering process but also rapid innovation and cross-functional growth. The role is perfect for someone who thrives in high-stakes environments and is passionate about pushing boundaries through practical, real-world experimentation.
Joining The Exploration Company as a Power Electronics Engineer is more than a career move – it’s a chance to be part of a history-making project. In a sector driven by precision, safety and innovation, this role offers the rare combination of technical challenge, collaborative work and visionary impact. For engineers ready to leave the ordinary behind and help power the future of orbital exploration, this is the place to be.
Key Responsibilities
As a Power Electronics Engineer in our Huracan propulsion team, you will handle a wide spectrum of tasks that combine conceptual design, practical execution, testing and collaborative development. Your core duties will include:
- Reviewing, improving and finalizing the circuit schematics and PCB layout for high-voltage and low-voltage power systems including driver circuits and inverter modules.
- Leading the development and refinement of control boards for power management systems across different phases of the propulsion cycle.
- Conducting initial power-up and rigorous testing of these power systems, both in our in-house laboratory and at partner test facilities.
- Diagnosing faults, identifying root causes and applying corrective measures through both hardware rework and firmware updates.
- Supporting your engineering colleagues by offering insights and proposing refinements in system design to maximize reliability, efficiency and safety.
- Preparing detailed technical reports based on test outcomes and simulations; contributing to the internal development of SOPs (standard operating procedures) for repeated testing protocols.
- Continuously improving the safety, diagnostics and performance capabilities of our propulsion testing infrastructure.
- Participating in risk assessments, failure mode analyses and safety briefings to ensure all hardware meets internal and regulatory standards.
What We’d Love to See from You
We’re seeking someone who not only has the technical know-how but also embodies our values of teamwork, innovation and continuous improvement. Ideally, candidates should bring:
- A degree (minimum bachelor’s level) in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or a related technical discipline. Master’s degrees or specialized postgraduate certifications are advantageous but not mandatory.
- At least 2 years of hands-on experience in the development and/or debugging of electronic hardware – particularly in environments where high reliability is a must, such as aerospace, defense, automotive or medical devices.
- A minimum of 1 year of relevant experience specifically in the field of power electronics. This includes, but is not limited to, development of drive inverters, traction systems or power conversion units.
- Practical experience using industry-standard design and simulation tools such as Altium Designer, PLECS, LTSpice or MATLAB/Simulink. Candidates with demonstrable experience in thermal and EMI analysis tools will have an edge.
- Solid foundational understanding of power semiconductors (IGBTs, MOSFETs), gate driver design, electromagnetic interference mitigation, thermal management and passive component selection.
- Hands-on lab experience including soldering, PCB rework, bench testing and high-voltage safety procedures. The role is experimental and iterative, so a lab-ready mindset is essential.
- Familiarity with interpreting electrical schematics, wiring layouts, safety standards and operating oscilloscopes, signal generators, power analyzers and other diagnostics equipment.
- An enthusiastic, positive approach to problems and the ability to adjust quickly to shifting priorities or emerging technical challenges.
- A systematic mindset with strong attention to detail and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and technical precision.
- Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal, are a must as the role is collaborative and documentation-intensive.
Desirable Experience and Skills
While not required, candidates with the following qualifications or experience will be particularly well-suited for the role:
- Knowledge of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) systems, especially in power applications. This includes familiarity with battery simulation, thermal stress testing and motor emulator use.
- Understanding of EMC compliance procedures, pre-certification diagnostics and EMI suppression techniques.
- Experience working with or analyzing radiation-hardened components or systems for space environments.
- Prior exposure to aerospace and defense standards such as ECSS (European Cooperation for Space Standardization), NASA-HBK guidelines or MIL-STD specifications.
- Interest or background in space systems, satellite propulsion or reusable launch vehicles.
Why You Should Join The Exploration Company
There are countless reasons why this opportunity is unlike any other in the aerospace sector. What sets us apart isn’t just our mission – it’s how we work:
- Agility at Scale: We combine the rigor of a structured aerospace environment with the speed and agility of a modern tech startup. Decision-making is fast, clear and purpose-driven.
- Transparency and Trust: Our teams are built on mutual respect and open communication. We discuss risks early, share knowledge generously and work together to solve problems proactively.
- Collaborative Spirit: We believe no single discipline builds a spacecraft. Engineers, developers, systems architects and technicians are all equal players in our collaborative setup.
- Enjoyment in the Journey: Space exploration is ambitious, demanding – and thrilling. Our workplace reflects this excitement. We foster a culture that celebrates progress and growth, not just outcomes.
- Real Impact: Your work here isn’t a cog in the wheel – it shapes the final product, influences mission timelines and defines how we approach our goals.
Additional Information
- Diversity & Inclusion: We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Discrimination of any kind has no place in our company culture – regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or disability.
- International Applicants Welcome: For exceptional talent, we offer relocation support including help with accommodation search and visa sponsorship (where applicable). Candidates from outside Germany are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Hybrid Flexibility: This position is based in Planegg, Germany, but comes with a flexible hybrid work model that allows a mix of on-site and remote collaboration depending on project needs and lab schedules.
Here’s How to Apply
If the thought of helping launch a reusable, modular spacecraft excites you – then we want to hear from you. Please submit your updated CV and any supporting documents. If your profile fits what we’re looking for, a member of our team will contact you for the next step in the process.
Please use the following direct application link