Composite Manufacturing Technician

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 Composite Manufacturing Technician to join our team responsible for producing thermal protection systems designed for demanding environments. This hands-on role based near Bordeaux in France will contribute directly to the quality and performance of the products we deliver. Key Responsibilities: Thermal Protection Systems Manufacturing: - Prepare materials and tooling according to technical instructions. - Perform molding operations (including Resin Transfer Molding - RTM, infusion) and curing in an autoclave or oven. - Monitor manufacturing parameters to ensure quality and repeatability of parts. Post-processing and Finishing: - Perform post-processing operations on manufactured panels: trimming, sanding, fitting. - Operate CNC machines for machining operations required for post-processing of manufactured composite parts. - Contribute to inspections to verify compliance. Quality and Compliance Monitoring: - Apply production quality standards and ensure traceability of all operations performed. - Participate in the identification and resolution of non-conformities. Operational Maintenance of Production Equipment: - Carry out first-level maintenance on production equipment (CNC machines, tooling, ovens, etc.). - Monitor the condition of tools and report any malfunction to ensure availability of industrial resources. Continuous Improvement: - Propose optimization actions for processes, tools, and working methods. - Contribute to the technical skill development of the workshop. Education and Experience: - Education: Technical degree equivalent to an Associate’s Degree (e.g., in composites, materials, manufacturing, plastics engineering, aeronautics, or an equivalent industrial field). - Professional experience: Minimum of 5 years’ experience in composite manufacturing, ideally in the aerospace, space, defense, marine, or high-performance automotive sectors. Expected Technical Skills: - Proficiency in molding, infusion, and curing processes. - Experience with CNC machine tools for post-machining of composites. - Knowledge of first-level maintenance of industrial equipment. Personal Qualities: - Rigor, precision, and respect for quality requirements. - Autonomy, team spirit, and sense of responsibility. Location: Position based near Bordeaux in France within an innovative and fast-growing industrial environment. 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. The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable. 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 pr