Automation/Electrical Engineer — HiL Test Platform Development

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. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Automation/Electrical Engineer to join our HiL/EGSE Engineering Team in Munich. You will contribute to the design, development, and integration of complex Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) platforms, supporting the verification and validation of avionics and electrical subsystems. These platforms are composed of hundreds of electrical and electronic components (both COTS and custom-made) and must meet CE marking and Machinery Directive compliance. Your work will have a direct impact on the performance, reliability, and safety of critical aerospace systems. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES In your role as an Automation/Electrical Engineer for HiL Platform Development, you will be responsible for the following: - Lead the compliant design of electrical schematics for both power and signal circuits - Define and implement safety devices, protection mechanisms, and power management solutions - Be responsible for the overall electrical design of the HiL test laboratory - Develop and support electrical setups for component and subsystem testing — ranging from simple rigs to highly integrated systems - Ensure compliance with industry standards, CE marking, and applicable electrical safety regulations - Collaborate with a highly skilled cross-functional team (software, simulation, mechanical, avionics) throughout the development lifecycle - Participate in technical reviews, support documentation efforts, and ensure traceability of requirements - Occasionally travel abroad to support customers, suppliers, or company affiliates YOU AND YOUR TEAM WILL BE IN CHARGE OF: - Defining the architecture of HiL electrical systems, ensuring scalability, reliability, and maintainability - Selecting, specifying, and integrating electrical components and interfaces for the test platforms - Performing make-or-buy analysis, managing suppliers and coordinating with procurement - Supporting the integration of real-time simulation environments and electrical interfaces (e.g., power supplies, loads, relays, sensors, signal conditioning) - Contributing to risk assessments and FMEAs related to electrical design - Driving continuous improvement to increase the safety, efficiency, and modularity of test platforms WHAT WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE FROM YOU Ideally, you bring the following experience and qualifications: - Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Automation Engineering - Strong understanding of electrical system design, circuit protection, and signal integrity - Solid knowledge of industry standards and regulations (e.g., IEC/EN standards, Machinery Directive, CE marking) - Experience using electrical CAD tools (e.g., EPLAN, Zuken, or equivalent) for schematic design and documentation - Knowledge of electronic circuit design (analog and digital) is a plus - Experience working in aerospace, automotive, or industrial automation is highly desirable - Familiarity with HiL testing, test bench architecture, or EGSE systems is a plus - Excellent problem-solving skills and a pragmatic, cost-conscious design mindset - Fluent in English (spoken and written); German is a plus 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 i