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Destinus is seeking a highly motivated Propulsion Test Engineer to lead the safe planning, execution, and continuous improvement of solid rocket motor (SRM) and igniter testing. This is a hands-on, operations-focused role centered on test readiness, procedural rigor, and operational safety for energetic propulsion systems.
Key Responsibilities:
- Own the planning, coordination, and execution of solid rocket motor and igniter test campaigns from end-to-end
- Define and author test plans and procedures for SRM and igniter testing, ensuring clarity, repeatability, and traceability
- Lead test readiness reviews (TRR) and pre-test briefings to confirm technical, operational, and safety readiness
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve safety concepts, hazard analyses, contingency plans, and emergency procedures for energetic systems, propellants, ignition devices, and pressurized hardware
- Act as test conductor during live firings, coordinating personnel, enforcing safety zones, making technical decisions, and responding to off-nominal or abort conditions
- Ensure strict compliance with internal safety standards and applicable regulations for explosives, energetic materials, and high-temperature exhaust environments
- Support definition and validation of instrumentation and data acquisition requirements
- Oversee test setup integration, inspection, dry runs, and functional verifications of motors, igniters, firing circuits, and safety interlocks
- Lead or support test anomaly, misfire, or incident investigations, including root cause analysis and corrective actions
- Produce high-quality test documentation including test plans, risk assessments, test reports, and lessons learned
- Collaborate with propulsion, mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineers to ensure alignment between test objectives and design maturity
- Support development and improvement of test infrastructure, firing stands, remote operations, and safety systems
- Act as testing/integration representative within cross-functional project teams, reviewing design concepts early for testability and feasibility
Requirements:
- BSc. or MSc. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
- Minimum 2+ years of experience in propulsion or high-energy system testing with strong exposure to test operations and execution
- Strong understanding of rocket propulsion required; solid rocket motor experience is a plus
- Experience in propulsion testing such as static firing or ignition system validation is a strong plus
- Experience working with energetic materials, propellants, pyrotechnic devices, or high-pressure systems is highly required
- Demonstrated experience in test planning, procedural definition, and hands-on test execution
- Strong background in test safety, including hazard identification, risk assessments, explosive safety, and emergency response planning
- Familiarity with propulsion test instrumentation and data acquisition systems (pressure transducers, thermocouples, thrust measurement, ignition circuits)
- Ability to operate calmly and decisively during time-critical ignition and firing operations
- Strong communication skills with ability to lead test activities and coordinate multidisciplinary teams
- Proactive, ownership-driven mindset with strong problem-solving capabilities
- Ability to work autonomously and as part of a fast-paced, multidisciplinary development team
- Fluency in English required; German is a plus
