Propellant Chemist

Destinusgroup in Payerne, CH, seeks a Senior Propellant Chemist for full-time onsite work. The role focuses on developing solid rocket propellants and thermal protection materials for high-performance rocket motors, combining materials science, process development, and rigorous analysis.

This role leads the formulation, development, and characterization of solid rocket propellants and thermal protection systems for advanced rocket motor applications. It combines hands-on materials science with process development and analytical rigor to deliver reliable, high-quality propulsion materials. Destinus is revolutionizing the defense industry with cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and partners globally with government and defense organizations to deliver mission-critical solutions.

Responsibilities

• Design and refine solid rocket propellant formulations, balancing performance, mechanical strength, stability, and manufacturability.
• Oversee lab-scale mixing, casting, curing, and post-processing, following safety and quality protocols.
• Develop and apply characterization methods for propellants, including mechanical, thermal, rheological, ballistic, ablation, and aging tests.
• Create and document standard test procedures, acceptance criteria, and data analysis methods for propellant and thermal protection system development.
• Support the definition of manufacturing process parameters and quality control for propellant and TPS production, including mixing, degassing, casting, curing, and storage.
• Evaluate formulation trade-offs and drive improvements in performance, reliability, and consistency.
• Assist rocket motor development by linking material properties to motor performance and behavior under thermal and structural conditions.
• Lead or assist in investigating material issues, aging effects, or performance deviations, conducting root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including formulation records, process specs, characterization reports, and development plans.
• Work with propulsion, structures, manufacturing, and test teams to integrate propellant materials into motor designs.
• Participate in long-term technology roadmaps for advanced propellant systems.

Requirements

• BSc. or MSc. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in solid rocket propellant development or similar polymer/composite material systems.
• Practical experience with propellant formulation, mixing, casting, and curing processes.
• Solid understanding of polymer-bonded systems, composite materials, and viscoelastic behavior.
• Experience in planning and executing material characterization, including mechanical, thermal, and aging tests.
• Familiarity with creating standard operating procedures and structured development workflows.
• Analytical thinking to interpret material data and inform engineering decisions.
• Strong documentation habits and experience working in safety-critical environments.
• Ability to perform hands-on work in lab and pilot-scale settings.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across multidisciplinary teams.
• Fluency in English is required.

Nice to have

• German language skills are an advantage.

What the company offers

• Work on pioneering aerospace projects that push the boundaries of flight technology.
• Collaborate with leading engineers from around the world.
• Experience the energy of a fast-growing company.
• Contribute directly to shaping the future of flight with tangible impact.

About the company

Destinus is transforming the defense industry through advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. The company partners with government and defense organizations globally to deliver high-performance solutions for critical missions.

• Innovative approach to aerospace and defense technology.
• Global collaboration with defense and government partners.
• Focus on mission-critical, high-performance UAV systems.