Chemical Propulsion Systems Engineer
£40,000 – £60,000
Full time: Hybrid
Oxford
My client is a specialist engineering company who provide complex, turn-key solutions for the space sector, including applications in astrophysics, accelerators, lasers, and nuclear fusion.
They deliver cutting-edge instrumentation to high-profile clients such as major space agencies and aerospace companies, contributing to over 50 instruments for various research and innovation centers.
With a multinational presence, their offices span several key locations across Europe and the U.S.
The Role:
My client is looking to recruit for a Senior Chemical Propulsion Engineer to join their team. In this role you will lead the propulsion system of a new ESA Science mission.
Responsibilities:
- Lead systems engineering for propulsion across diverse thrust ranges.
- Collaborate with providers for both chemical and electric propulsion systems.
- Drive technical oversight of equipment such as thrusters, tanks, and fluidic components.
- Work closely with senior ESA engineers to finalize propulsion specs and configurations.
- Develop water-based electrolysis propulsion solutions alongside the CTO and engineering leads.
- Contribute to continuous product and systems improvement, and report on project developments.
- Provide strategic input on propulsion product development and integration.
- Conduct performance analysis, validate requirements, and organize ESA/ECSS standard datapacks.
Job Requirements:
- Minimum 2:1 Master’s or higher in Engineering, Science, or Mathematics.
- 3+ years in chemical propulsion (CP) systems, with 2+ years on CP components.
- Experience with hydrazine or storable propellant systems and space hardware.
- Skilled in requirements definition, system validation, and subsystem testing.
- Familiarity with propulsion system interactions with thermal, structural, and mechanical design.
- Strong communication, technical writing, and multitasking abilities.
- Knowledge of ESA ECSS standards for propulsion system cleanliness and design.
Desirable:
- Experience with hydrazine propulsion and green propellant systems.
- Publications or attendance at industry conferences.
- Background in spacecraft fueling and system engineering.