Principal NDT 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.

To support the growth of our production activities, we are looking for an experienced Principal NDT Engineer to join our team in Munich.

You will act as the main internal technical reference for Non-Destructive Testing activities, coordinate our internal Level 2 inspectors, and work closely with external NDT providers and our appointed Responsible Level 3.

The role does not require a Level 3 certification in all methods. We are looking for someone with strong NDT knowledge and proven experience in the space industry who can structure the activity, support production, and coordinate internal and external stakeholders.

YOUR MISSION

As our Principal NDT Engineer, you will coordinate and develop NDT activities for critical space hardware, with a strong focus on RT, UT, and PT.

You will:

- Act as the main internal technical focal point for NDT across Production, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain

- Coordinate internal Level 2 inspectors, including priorities, technical support, and escalation of complex cases

- Manage external NDT suppliers and ensure the quality, traceability, and timely delivery of inspections

- Prepare and improve NDT procedures, techniques, inspection plans, and reporting methods

- Coordinate formal approvals with the appointed Responsible Level 3

- Support the deployment and maintenance of the EN 4179 / NAS 410 framework

- Support production issues, non-conformities, root cause investigations, and corrective actions

- Define the roadmap for future internal capabilities, equipment, training, and advanced inspection methods

YOUR PROFILE

- Proven professional experience in the space industry is mandatory

- Strong experience in NDT applied to spacecraft, launch vehicles, propulsion systems, pressure vessels, welded structures, composite parts, or other critical space hardware

- Good practical knowledge of Radiographic Testing and/or Ultrasonic Testing

- Knowledge of Penetrant Testing and Visual Testing

- Current or previous Level 2 qualification in RT, UT, or PT is strongly preferred

- Good understanding of EN 4179, NAS 410, ISO 9712, or comparable qualification frameworks

- Experience working with Level 3 personnel, external inspection companies, or certification bodies

- Ability to understand technical drawings, specifications, acceptance criteria, and inspection reports

- Experience preparing or reviewing NDT procedures, technical instructions, or inspection plans

- Professional fluency in English

A Level 3 certification in one or more methods would be preferable (RT in priority).

Experience with Eddy Current Testing, digital radiography, phased-array UT, automated inspection, or composite inspection would also be valuable.

SOFT SKILLS

- Strong technical judgment combined with a pragmatic production mindset

- Autonomous, structured, and rigorous

- Comfortable coordinating technicians, suppliers, and technical experts

- Able to challenge existing practices and propose practical improvements

- Strong focus on product conformity, traceability, and inspection reliability

- Comfortable working in a fast-paced and international environment

- Motivated to build and develop a robust NDT capability

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.

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.