MAIT Additive Manufacturing Trainee

MAIT Additive Manufacturing Trainee 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 want you as a talented MAIT Additive Manufacturing Trainee to help us in our mission by contributing significantly to Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology, development and in-house production for our Vehicles Nyx Earth and Nyx Moon. We are looking for a highly motivated and hands-on Additive Manufacturing (AM) Trainee to join our team. In this versatile role, you will shadow and support our senior Application Engineers in the qualification and development of cutting-edge additive manufacturing processes. You will gain invaluable hands-on experience in the lab, from operating printers to defining parameters for next-generation aerospace alloys. This is a unique opportunity to learn how to certify AM components to the highest industry standards, including NASA regulations, and to be at the forefront of new technology implementation, including potential Directed Energy Deposition (DED) processes. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: - Hands-On Machine Operation: Operate AM machines, actively participating in the full production cycle, including setup, depowdering, and sieving. - Parameter Development: Support senior engineers in defining, optimizing, and validating 3D printing process parameters for various materials, focusing on advanced alloys and composites. - Testing & Analysis: Prepare samples and assist in conducting tests to analyze material properties, ensuring processes meet strict performance requirements. - Certification Support: Collaborate with the team to learn and support the certification process for AM parts, specifically focusing on NASA and strict aerospace standards. - Quality Control: Assist in post-processing, quality control, and testing of printed parts to verify they meet precise mechanical and dimensional specifications. - Data & Documentation: Meticulously document test results and contribute to technical reports and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for process qualification. - Continuous Improvement: Help troubleshoot printing issues and research the latest advancements in AM technologies and materials to share with the broader team. - Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely and communicate effectively with engineering, quality, and certification teams to align on project deliverables. QUALIFICATIONS: - Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (completed or in the final stages) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field. - Ability to be onsite 100% of the time at the TEC site in Mönchengladbach. - Ability to lift 25kgs unassisted with fine motor skills and visual ability to operate equipment and safely work in a manufacturing environment. - Foundational Knowledge: Solid academic understanding of material properties and behaviors, particularly concerning metals used in aerospace applications. - Problem-Solving Mindset: Strong analytical skills paired with an eager, hands-on approach to tackling technical challenges. - Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic, fast-paced team environment. - Adaptability: Highly organized with the ability to juggle multiple learning tasks and project support roles simultaneously. PREFERRED SKILLS: - AM Experience: University project, lab, or internship experience with additive manufacturing processes (e.g., Laser Powder Bed Fusion, Directed Energy Deposition, or Electron Beam Melting) is a strong plus. - Software Familiarity: Basic experience with CAD and simulation software (such as NX Suite or ANSYS). - Standards & Quality: Familiarity with aerospace/NASA standards, process qualification methodologies, or non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques. C ... (truncated, view full listing at source)