Propulsion & Control Engineer
On-siteZürich, Zurich, Switzerland
Job Summary
Own the terminal control propulsion subsystem end to end, including architecture, performance sizing, actuation, and thermal and structural integration. Specify and develop fast-response actuation systems capable of meeting demanding response, thrust, and precision requirements. Turn estimated performance into measured results through hardware testing and feed validated data back into the vehicle design. Own technical relationships with propulsion and actuation suppliers, defining specifications, critically evaluating designs, and ensuring hardware meets vehicle requirements. Plan and execute bench, environmental, and qualification test campaigns, including test rigs, instrumentation, data analysis, and verification against requirements. Work closely with GNC, mechanical, systems, and other engineering teams to ensure the subsystem performs as part of the complete interceptor.
Required Qualifications
- BSc, MSc, or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field
- 10+ years of experience in rocket, spacecraft, missile propulsion, or a closely related field, with hands-on ownership of propulsion or reaction-control hardware through design, build, and test
- Direct experience with fast-response actuation systems such as valves, thrusters, or equivalent technologies and precise control of thrust or flow
- Strong hands-on testing experience, including designing, running, and interpreting propulsion or actuation test campaigns
- Strong understanding of propulsion physics, including thrust and flow sizing, thermal behavior, and material and durability limits in hot, high-pressure environments
- Experience with quantitative engineering, sizing, and data analysis using Python or MATLAB
Desired Qualifications
- Experience with divert and attitude control systems, reaction-control systems, interceptors, or missile systems is highly valued
- Experience working across multi-company or multinational engineering programmes is an advantage
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