[P121] Launchpad Infrastructure Manager

Parque Industrial de Elche (Poligono Industrial), Spain

Description

As a Launchpad Infrastructure Manager, your mission is to lead and manage the entire infrastructure necessary to support the safe and efficient launch of rockets and spacecraft from our launch facility. You will be responsible for overseeing the design, development, and maintenance of the launchpad infrastructure, ensuring its reliability, scalability, and adherence to industry standards. 

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of engineers and technicians in the design and development of launchpad infrastructure, including launch vehicle integration systems, propellant storage and distribution systems, and ground support equipment. 

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather requirements and provide technical expertise in the planning and execution of launchpad infrastructure projects. 

• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, industry standards, and environmental impact assessments in all aspects of launchpad operations. 

• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance activities to ensure the operational readiness of the launchpad infrastructure. 

• Oversee troubleshooting and resolution of infrastructure-related issues, minimizing downtime and optimizing launchpad performance. 

• Develop and implement risk assessment and mitigation strategies to address potential infrastructure failures or emergencies. 

• Coordinate and participate in the execution of launchpad tests, including static fire tests and countdown simulations. 

• Stay informed about emerging technologies and industry trends related to launchpad infrastructure and recommend improvements or upgrades as needed. 

• Manage relationships with external vendors and contractors to procure necessary equipment and services for launchpad operations. 

• Maintain accurate documentation of all infrastructure-related activities, including designs, procedures, maintenance logs, and incident reports. 

• Collaborate with external entities and national and international range Authorities. 

• Generate documentation, including user guides, guidelines and user manuals for internal customers use. 

• Generate documentation for formal program development reviews. 

• Generate documentation for pad evolution, components obsolescence and maintenance guidelines as well as component´s performance evaluation. 

• Provide high-level and low-level feedback for MIURA 5 program development planning 

Required Knowledge

• Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s degree or demonstrable relevant experience in lieu thereof. Advanced degree preferred. 

• > 10 years of relevant technical experience. 

• Demonstrated experience in design industrial machinery, hydraulics or fluid and gas lines such as water, liquid oxygen, liquid nitrogen, kerosene, nitrogen, or helium. 

• Knowledge in selection and application of design criteria and rules, materials, strengths, and other mechanical properties, according to the loading conditions, working environment, etc. 

• High degree of CAD competence and PDM tools. 

• Preferred software: Siemens NX and Teamcenter. 

• Knowledge of safety protocols, regulations, and industry standards applicable to launchpad operations. 

• Familiarity with risk assessment and mitigation strategies in high-stakes environments. 

• Understanding of networking concepts and experience with network infrastructure design and implementation. 

Required competences

• Exceptional leadership and team management skills to effectively lead a team of engineers and technicians. 

• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities to work seamlessly with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders. 

• Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high-quality standards for launchpad infrastructure. 

• Ability to make informed decisions under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a dynamic and challenging environment. 

• Strong organizational and project management skills to prioritize tasks and oversee multiple projects concurrently. 

• Adaptability and a willingness to continuously update knowledge and skills in line with evolving technologies and industry best practices. 

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills to identify and address infrastructure challenges. 

• Attention to detail and a focus on quality to ensure the reliability and safety of launchpad infrastructure.  

• Knowledge in industrial communication buses, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), sensors, actuators, and other devices. 

• English and/or French B2-C1 (French as preferred language) 

Valued competences

• Previous experience within the aerospace or space industry, particularly in launchpad infrastructure development or operations. 

• Expertise in rocket launch systems, including propellant loading, umbilical connections, and launch vehicle integration. 

• Knowledge of environmental impact assessments and regulatory compliance relevant to launchpad operations. 

• Familiarity with automation and control systems employed in launchpad operations. 

• Understanding of cybersecurity best practices for safeguarding launchpad infrastructure.
  

Others

• Location: Elche 

• Full time position  

• Flexibility and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required, in particular to French Guiana (FR), during implementation phase. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

Payload Aerospace SL is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against gender, marital status, religion, age, colour, race, sexual orientation, nationality or disability.

We are compromised in maintaining a diverse and free from discrimination working environment where everyone is treated with respect. Employment is based on an individual’s merit and qualifications, directly related to job competence.

These principles are included in all aspects of employment: recruiting, hiring, training, compensation and benefits, and promotion.