About the role
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. As a talented Propulsion CFD Engineer, you will be responsible for the computational fluid dynamics analysis of propulsion system components and thruster plumes, providing the flow physics insight that underpins component design, thruster performance, and vehicle-level integration decisions. Role Overview CFD Analysis & Component Simulation Perform CFD simulations of propulsion components — valves, regulators, orifices, injectors, feed lines — to characterize internal flow, pressure drop, and flow-induced loads. Support design trade studies by predicting component-level performance across the operating envelope, in both steady-state and transient conditions. Identify and help resolve flow anomalies such as cavitation, choking, or flow separation that affect component performance. Plume Characterization & Thruster Performance Model thruster plume characterization, from near-field continuum expansion through far-field rarefied flow, including relevant gas dynamics effects. Assess plume-induced thermal, contamination, and force/torque effects on adjacent subsystems and vehicle surfaces. Support thruster and nozzle design by predicting performance parameters such as thrust coefficient and specific impulse from CFD. Cross-Functional Design Collaboration Work closely with propulsion design engineers and structural and thermal analysts to translate CFD results into actionable design inputs and margins. Communicate CFD findings and their implications clearly to multidisciplinary teams and program stakeholders. Support system-level trades on component sizing, thruster placement, and plume shielding for vehicle interfaces. Model Validation, Tools & Documentation Validate and correlate CFD models against test data — cold-flow testing, hot-fire testing, plume diagnostics — to build and maintain model confidence. Maintain and improve CFD simulation workflows, meshing practices, and tools to improve turnaround time and consistency across the design office. Produce clear technical reports and analysis documentation supporting design reviews and certification. Key
