Chemisch Ingenieur vacatures bij ARES - (Association of Retired ESA Staff in Nederland).

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Chemical Propulsion Engineer

Job Requisition ID: 20427

Date Posted: 4 November 2026

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

Publication Method: Internal & External

Directorate: Technology, Engineering and Quality

Workplace:

Noordwijk, NL

Grade Band: A2 - A4

Location

ESTEC, Noordwijk, Netherlands

Description

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.

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.

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.