Senior Propulsion Engineer (SRM)

Destinusgroup in Payerne, CH, seeks a Senior Propulsion Engineer (SRM) for full-time onsite work. The role focuses on designing, testing, and certifying rocket motors for aerospace and defense applications, supporting UAV development for global defense partners.

The Senior Propulsion Engineer is responsible for leading the design and development of propulsion systems for unmanned aerial vehicles, ensuring performance meets customer and military standards. The role bridges design, analysis, and testing, guiding rocket motor development from concept to certification, supporting Destinus’s mission to innovate in the defense industry through advanced UAV solutions.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and develop rocket motors and pyrotechnic components.
• Conduct detailed data and performance evaluations to support iterative improvements.
• Create technical reports, qualification matrices, and compliance documentation aligned with aerospace and military standards.
• Develop tools and methods for rocket motor performance estimation and development.
• Assist in creating sizing tools for thermal protection systems, nozzles, and rocket motors.
• Support qualification and certification of rocket motors according to MIL-STD and STANAG standards.
• Collaborate with design engineers on motor hardware, insulation, and igniter integration to ensure certifiability from the outset.
• Participate in failure investigations, root cause analyses, and updates to design or test procedures to maintain compliance.
• Work with internal and external teams to coordinate design validation and certification schedules.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Propulsion Engineering.
• At least 4-5 years of experience in rocket motor development.
• Deep understanding of rocket motor design, sizing, and thermal protection systems.
• Prior experience in coding and tool development.
• Practical experience with static firing tests, propellant handling, or motor integration.
• Strong analytical and documentation abilities, including data interpretation, clear report writing, and compliance record-keeping.
• Ability to work across multiple engineering disciplines including mechanical, thermal, materials, and systems.
• Willingness to travel to other Destinus locations in Switzerland (up to 20%).

Nice to have

• Experience qualifying rocket motors or ignition safe and arm devices under NATO standards.
• Familiarity with pressure vessel design and combustion analysis.

What the company offers

• Engage in pioneering aerospace projects that push the boundaries of flight technology.
• Collaborate with leading engineers from around the world.
• Be part of a fast-growing company with dynamic, high-impact work.
• Contribute directly to shaping the future of aerospace and defense.

About the company

Destinus is transforming the defense industry through advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), providing mission-critical solutions to government and defense organizations worldwide.

• Innovative approach to aerospace and defense technology.
• Global partnerships with defense agencies and organizations.
• Focus on cutting-edge UAV development for critical operations.