Help Build Europe's Hypersonic Capability

At Hypersonica, we’re redefining what’s possible in European defence technology. We exist to deliver speed, resilience, and technological independence at a pace that sets a new standard. We are a small, elite team working on problems that matter, and solving them fast.

By joining Hypersonica, you’re not stepping into a predefined role. You’re joining a talent dense environment where every individual shapes the direction of the company. Our philosophy is to hire a small number of exceptional people with broad, deep technical capability, strong judgement, and the ability to operate autonomously.

We hire for talent, not rigid boxes. This role represents a business need, but the way it evolves will be shaped by the individual. If you’ve achieved what others said was impossible, or you bring a unique combination of skills that doesn’t fit a traditional mould, we want to hear from you. The work you do here directly contributes to Europe’s technological independence.

### What you'll do

Own and lead the development of solid rocket motor (SRM) propellant processes, from formulation through mixing, casting, curing, and post‑processing.

Define and implement robust, repeatable methodologies for propellant manufacture, ensuring consistent quality, performance, and safety.

Design and own propellant qualification procedures, covering thermal, mechanical, chemical, and compatibility testing.

Lead the definition and execution of testing strategies to validate propellant behaviour under operational and environmental conditions.

Ensure all chemistry and manufacturing processes are fully compliant with UK explosives and safety regulations, acting as the technical authority for compliance.

Develop and own the commissioning plans for new mixing, casting, and curing equipment, ensuring safe and effective transition to operational use.

Support the specification, selection, and validation of manufacturing equipment, working closely with facilities, safety, and operations teams.

Define the materials list required for SRM production, including raw constituents, additives, liners, and auxiliaries, with recommended and qualified suppliers.

Identify and manage process risks, failure modes, and sensitivities related to propellant manufacture and storage.

Collaborate with propulsion, structures, systems, and safety teams to ensure propellant properties are aligned with motor design and mission requirements.

Provide technical leadership on explosive safety practices, enabling safe scale‑up from development to production.

Act as the internal authority on solid propellant chemistry, mentoring engineers and shaping long‑term capability.

### Who you are

A senior chemist or propellant specialist with deep experience in solid rocket motor propellants and explosive materials.

Experienced working on an explosives site, with direct exposure to mixing, casting, curing, and handling of energetic materials.

Strong background in composite propellants, or a demonstrated commitment to rapidly upskill through structured training with an industry partner.

Deep understanding of UK explosives regulation, including the UK Explosives Regulations (ER2014), and how they are applied in practice.

Experienced defining and supporting equipment commissioning procedures in regulated, safety‑critical environments.

Comfortable acting as a technical authority, setting standards and making risk‑balanced decisions.

Methodical, disciplined, and safety‑driven, with a strong instinct for process control and compliance.

Able to translate complex chemical behaviour into clear, operationally usable processes.

Comfortable operating in early‑stage, fast‑moving programmes where processes are built from first principles.

Motivated by building and protecting sovereign propulsion capability, where technical rigour and safety are non‑negotiable.

### Security and Eligibility Requirement

Due to the nature of the work with the UK MOD, applicants must be a British Citizen (or Dual UK national with British citizenship) and eligible for UK Security Clearance (SC) and, where required, Developed Vetting (DV)

### What we offer

A mission driven environment with the opportunity to work on one of Europe’s most consequential defence challenges, with direct impact on sovereign capability and security.

Daily collaboration with top experts across engineering, operations, and defence, with real opportunity to learn from the best, contribute, and grow.

High ownership and autonomy; no time tracking, no micromanagement, just clear objectives and accountability for outcomes.

A fast paced environment where good ideas are implemented quickly, and feedback from test and flight drives real decisions.

A culture that values clarity, integrity, and excellence, and supports people who take initiative and push boundaries responsibly.

Competitive compensation and real share options aligned to responsibility and impact, not tenure or hierarchy.

At Hypersonica, every hire raises the bar. We are deliberately small, intensely capable, and deeply mission-driven. If this role feels like a strong fit, or if you believe you bring something exceptional that goes beyond the description, we encourage you to apply.

Hypersonica is an equal-opportunity employer and assesses candidates solely on merit, capability, and potential.

You can apply directly to this role or reach out to Nathan Sweeney, Head of Talent. We review every application and aim to respond to all candidates within two weeks, whether the answer is yes or no.

89 Lead Chemist

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