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.