Chemical Propulsion Engineer

We are looking for a ​Chemical Propulsion Engineer​ on behalf of the European Space Agency (ESA) for their location in ​Noordwijk, The Netherlands​, to join their ​Propulsion Engineering Section​. Please be aware that this position is for a fixed term of 1 year, starting January 2026. 

Please note, the successful candidate will be employed by ATG Europe (or one of its subsidiaries). Furthermore, upon selection, they will be subject to a general security screening performed by an external provider (further information will be provided at interview stage). 

The successful candidate will be tasked with, but not limited to: 

• Provide expert technical support in Chemical Propulsion to the Agency’s project teams responsible for the development of space transportation and exploration vehicles (including launchers, orbital transfer vehicles, landers and re-entry vehicles) and spacecraft throughout all the project phases; 

• Supporting the activities for studies, simulation and experimental investigations and engineering developments in chemical propulsion (components, equipment, sub-systems, systems). 

• Provide specialised support to Agency feasibility and project definition studies, preparatory programmes and approved projects in the field of chemical propulsion; 

• Participate in the definition and execution of the Agency's technology programmes; 

• Contribute to the overseeing activities of the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality; 

• Harmonise with other ESA and national developments and monitoring of applicable development trends; 

• Provide specialised support to feasibility, preparatory programmes and approved projects in the field of chemical propulsion, including CDF participation; 

• Assess and develop chemical propulsion novel propulsion concepts (e.g. Nuclear and Airbreathing technologies); 

• Assess and develop relevant advanced propulsion methods, processes and concepts (MEMS propulsion, Green Propulsion, Advanced Manufacturing etc); 

• Support to the configuration/system design of chemical propulsion systems including the initiation of appropriate critical technology developments (coordinating support by other D/TEC sections);  

• Establish and promote design and engineering standards in the area of chemical propulsion; 

• Support to the undertaking of programmes of basic experimental research and evaluation/qualification testing in the chemical propulsion in the ESA Propulsion Laboratory at ESTEC. 

ATG is dedicated to diversity and inclusion and is an equal opportunity employer. Regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, handicap or any other reason protected by relevant state or municipal legislation, we are pleased to consider all eligible candidates for employment.