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 ChainCoordinate internal Level 2 inspectors, including priorities, technical support, and escalation of complex casesManage external NDT suppliers and ensure the quality, traceability, and timely delivery of inspectionsPrepare and improve NDT procedures, techniques, inspection plans, and reporting methodsCoordinate formal approvals with the appointed Responsible Level 3Support the deployment and maintenance of the EN 4179 / NAS 410 frameworkSupport production issues, non-conformities, root cause investigations, and corrective actionsDefine the roadmap for future internal capabilities, equipment, training, and advanced inspection methods Your profile Proven professional experience in the space industry is mandatoryStrong experience in NDT applied to spacecraft, launch vehicles, propulsion systems, pressure vessels, welded structures, composite parts, or other critical space hardwareGood practical knowledge of Radiographic Testing and/or Ultrasonic TestingKnowledge of Penetrant Testing and Visual TestingCurrent or previous Level 2 qualification in RT, UT, or PT is strongly preferredGood understanding of EN 4179, NAS 410, ISO 9712, or comparable qualification frameworksExperience working with Level 3 personnel, external inspection companies, or certification bodiesAbility to understand technical drawings, specifications, acceptance criteria, and inspection reportsExperience preparing or reviewing NDT procedures, technical instructions, or inspection plansProfessional 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 mindsetAutonomous, structured, and rigorousComfortable coordinating technicians, suppliers, and technical expertsAble to challenge existing practices and propose practical improvementsStrong focus on product conformity, traceability, and inspection reliabilityComfortable working in a fast-paced and international environmentMotivated 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. 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 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.