Chemical Propulsion Engineer

European Space Agency; Noordwijk; On-site; EUR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

European Space Agency is seeking a Chemical Propulsion Engineer to contribute to the Propulsion, Aerothermodynamics and Flight Vehicles Engineering Division in Noordwijk, Netherlands. The role focuses on design, development, and testing of chemical propulsion systems for spacecraft and space transportation vehicles.

The candidate will report to the Head of Section and engage in technology development roadmaps, innovative concepts, and cross-disciplinary collaboration within ESA’s engineering

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant domain and at least 10 years of professional experience.
• Strong background in chemical propulsion concepts and related technologies.
• Experience with MON/MMH or hydrazine engine systems and their development.
• Proven ability to define technology roadmaps and manage R&D activities.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical support and consultancy in chemical propulsion across project phases.
• Participate in feasibility studies, reviews and evaluation of proposals.
• Identify critical development problems and help resolve them.
• Define and manage R&D work plans and technology development requirements.
• Drive multidisciplinary innovation and new application areas in propulsion.
• Support propulsion laboratory activities and monitor trends in the field.
• Disseminate results and facilitate knowledge transfer within the Agency.

Skills

Chemical propulsion

Engine design

Engine testing

Project management

Education

Master's degree in a relevant domain

Job description

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Closing Date: 25 November 2026 23:59 CET/CEST

Publication Method: Internal & External

Type of Appointment ( learn more) : 4 years, extendable to indefinite

Directorate: Technology, Engineering and Quality

Chemical Propulsion Engineer, Chemical Propulsion Section, within the Propulsion, Aerothermodynamics and Flight Vehicles Engineering Division, Mechanical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality.

The Chemical Propulsion Section provides support to ESA projects and leads chemical propulsion R&D activities with ESA’s industrial stakeholders in the areas of chemical propulsion (systems utilising liquid, solid, hybrid and gaseous propellants for spacecraft and space transportation vehicles), as well in advanced new propulsion systems (such as air-breathing engines for advanced launch vehicles and nuclear propulsion for deep space missions).

In addition, the Section supports the harmonisation of technologies and leads the definition of the technology development roadmaps for future activities.

Duties

You will report to the Head of Section, and in the above technical areas, your main tasks and responsibilities will include:

• providing expert technical support and consultancy to ESA projects, programmes and general studies in the area of chemical propulsion throughout all project phases, with particular emphasis on the design, development and testing of MON/MMH or hydrazine engines;
• participating in feasibility studies, project reviews and evaluation of procurement proposals;
• identifying critical development problems and assisting in their resolution;
• contributing to the definition of technology development requirements and work plans for the Agency’s technology programmes;
• defining, initiating and managing R&D activities covering both long- and short-term needs;
• fostering new application areas for multidisciplinary activities, with an emphasis on innovative concepts, cutting-edge technologies and system architectures;
• supporting chemical propulsion laboratory activities as required;
• monitoring applicable scientific and technological trends and maintaining state-of-the-art expertise;
• contributing to dissemination of the results of activities performed and the transfer of knowledge across the Agency.

Your duties may also include performing other activities within your field of competence.

General background in one or more of the following technical domains: advanced propulsion concepts; storable and/or cryogenics propulsion systems, fluid and mechanical ground support equipment relating to chemical propulsion; in-space refilling systems; and air-breathing chemical propulsion systems

Relevant experience in MON/MMH or hydrazine engine design, development and testing

Project support experience in chemical propulsion

Experience in the preparation of procurement activities for technology development and innovation, such as statements of work and proposal evaluation

Experience in the management and monitoring of industrial activities, including participation in reviews

Experience with Space Engineering Standards and their preparation and implementation

Experience in the manufacturing and testing of spacecraft systems and components

Result Orientation
Operational Efficiency
Fostering Cooperation
Relationship Management
Continuous Improvement
Forward Thinking

A master’s degree in a relevant domain is required for this post together with at least 10 years of relevant professional experience.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness
ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics.

At the Agency we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss this further, please contact us via email at [e-mail] .

Important Information and Disclaimer
In principle, recruitment will be within the advertised grade band (A2-A4). However, if the selected candidate has less than four years of relevant professional experience following the completion of the master’s degree, the position may be filled at A1 level.

Applicants must be eligible to access information, technology, and hardware which is subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations.

During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests. Additionally, successful candidates will need to undergo basic screening before appointment, which will be conducted by an external background screening service, in compliance with the European Space Agency's security procedures.

Note that ESA is in the process of transitioning to a Matrix setup, which could lead to organisational changes affecting this position.

The information published on ESA’s careers website regarding working conditions is correct at the time of publication. It is not intended to be exhaustive and may not address all questions you would have.

Nationality and Languages
Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Canada, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia.

According to the ESA Convention, staff shall be recruited on the basis of their qualifications, taking into account an adequate distribution of posts among nationals of the Member States.

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset.