Electric Propulsion Engineer

As Electric Propulsion Engineer, you will report to the Head of the Electric Propulsion Section within the Propulsion, Aerothermodynamics, and Flight Vehicles Engineering Division.

Your role will encompass technology research and development (R&D) and project support in the field of electric propulsion, providing technical support to ESA projects and leading ESA R&D contracts focused on innovative propulsion technologies for planned ESA missions.

In addition, you will manage test activities at the ESA Propulsion Laboratory and support the definition of technology development roadmaps for future activities.

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 in electric propulsion to the Agency project teams responsible for the development of spacecraft throughout all project phases.
• Participating in feasibility studies, project reviews and the evaluation of procurement proposals.
• Identifying critical development problems and assisting in their resolution.
• Promoting the use of relevant technical standards, best engineering practices, innovative methodologies and solutions in projects.
• Contributing to the preparation of R&D plans, roadmaps, strategies and processes to address user and programme needs.
• Identifying opportunities for technology development within the technical domain, including technology trends in other industries and their adaptation to the space field.
• Defining, initiating and managing R&D activities covering experimental investigations and engineering developments in electric propulsion for both long- and short-term needs.
• Fostering new application areas for multidisciplinary activities, with emphasis on innovative concepts and cutting‑edge technologies.
• Managing test activities at the ESA Propulsion Laboratory, including Test Reviews (TRR, TRB).
• Knowledge building and transfer; monitoring applicable scientific and technological trends; maintaining state‑of‑the‑art expertise; contributing to dissemination of results and transfer of knowledge across the Agency.
• Mentoring Junior Professionals, EGTs and interns.
• Performing other activities within your field of competence.

• General spacecraft and space transportation systems knowledge, including space logistics knowledge.
• Understanding of related technologies, R&D trends and the industrial landscape.
• Knowledge of procurement processes for technology development and innovation (statements of work, proposal evaluation, etc.).
• Knowledge about the management and monitoring of industrial activities, including participation in reviews.
• Knowledge about space engineering standards and their preparation and implementation.

• Result Orientation
• Operational Efficiency
• Fostering Cooperation
• Relationship Management
• Continuous Improvement
• Forward Thinking

Master’s in a relevant domain, either aerospace or mechanical engineering or physics, together with at least 10 years of relevant professional experience.

• A minimum of several years of experience in the supervision of development and AIV of electric propulsion systems, thrusters and components for spacecraft applications.
• Practical experience in the operation and use of propulsion test facilities for low‑thrust applications.
• A comprehensive system background, including an appreciation of the state of the art in innovative space propulsion, will be considered an advantage.

ESA is an equal–opportunity employer committed to diversity within the workforce and to creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics.

Applications are considered only from nationals of the following States:
Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Canada, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia.

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required; knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset.