Chemical Propulsion Engineer

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

• Location: ESTEC, Noordwijk, Netherlands
• Type of Appointment: 4 years, extendable to indefinite
• Grade Band: A2 - A4
• Date Posted: 4 November 2026
• Closing Date: 25 November 2026 23:59 CET/CEST
• Publication Method: Internal & External

Description

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.

Technical competencies

• 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

Behavioural competencies

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

Education

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

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.

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.