Propellant Chemist – Solid Rocket Propellant Engineer

About the role

Imagine being at the core of propulsion innovation, shaping the materials that power high‑performance rocket systems. As a Propellant Chemist at Destinus you will lead the formulation, development and characterization of solid rocket propellants and thermal protection materials for advanced rocket motors.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and optimise solid rocket propellant formulations balancing performance, mechanical properties, stability and manufacturability.
• Lead laboratory‑scale mixing, casting, curing and post‑processing activities following safety and quality standards.
• Define and implement characterisation methods including mechanical, thermal, rheological, ballistic, ablation and ageing evaluations.
• Establish test procedures, acceptance criteria and data analysis methods for propellant and TPS material qualification.
• Support process parameter definition and quality control for manufacturing steps such as mixing, degassing, casting, curing and storage.
• Analyse formulation trade‑offs, drive improvements in performance and reproducibility, and correlate material properties with motor performance.
• Investigate material anomalies, ageing effects or performance deviations and lead root‑cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation and collaborate with propulsion, structures, manufacturing and test teams.

Required profile

• BSc or MSc in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Aerospace Engineering or related discipline.
• 5+ years experience in solid rocket propellant development or related polymer/composite systems.
• Hands‑on experience with propellant formulation, mixing, casting and curing processes.
• Strong understanding of polymer‑bonded systems, composite materials and visco‑elastic behaviour.
• Experience defining and conducting material characterisation programmes including mechanical, thermal and ageing testing.

Required skills

• Solid rocket propellant formulation and processing.
• Polymer‑bonded composite material expertise.
• Mechanical, thermal, rheological and ballistic testing.

What we offer

• The thrill of working on cutting‑edge aerospace projects.
• Collaboration with top engineers in a global innovation hub.
• Fast‑paced, high‑growth environment.
• Real impact – your work will shape the future of flight.