Senior Propulsion Engineer

Job Description

Join our team in London as a Senior Propulsion Engineer. You will lead the development, analysis, and optimisation of advanced propulsion systems for next‑generation space missions. This role demands deep technical expertise, strong systems thinking, and the ability to drive complex engineering programmes from concept through qualification

• Location: London
• On Site: 1-2x a month
• Clearance: Clearable 
• Experience Level: Mid -Senior 

Key Responsibilities:

• Propulsion system design — Own the architecture, modelling, and performance analysis of chemical and electric propulsion systems.
• Technical leadership — Guide multidisciplinary teams, review critical designs, and ensure technical coherence across propulsion activities.
• Test and validation — Define test plans, support integration, and lead performance verification campaigns.
• Supplier management — Oversee external partners delivering propulsion hardware and ensure compliance with requirements.
• Mission support — Provide propulsion expertise for mission analysis, system trades, and operational readiness.

Qualifications

Required Skills:

• Mandatory space experience — Proven background in spacecraft propulsion or closely related space systems
• Propulsion analysis — Strong capability in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and system modelling.
• Space hardware lifecycle — Hands‑on experience from concept design through qualification and flight.

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, or equivalent military experience.

Desirable Skills:

• Thruster development experience — Experience with electric propulsion, cold‑gas systems, or green propellants.
• System‑level integration — Ability to work across GNC, structures, avionics, and mission operations.
• Advanced modelling tools — Expertise with CFD, thermal‑fluid simulation, or multi‑physics modelling.
• Hands‑on test operations — Comfortable with vacuum chamber testing, leak checks, and performance characterisation.
• New‑space environment — Experience in fast‑paced development cycles, rapid prototyping, or on‑orbit servicing missions.
• Technical communication — Ability to clearly present propulsion concepts to internal and external stakeholders.

Additional Information

Why join us? 

We bring together entrepreneurial, tech-driven people to deliver innovative solutions for leading companies.

At ALTEN, you’ll work on exciting projects, supported by ongoing learning, mentoring, and clear career development tailored to your goals.

Join a passionate team and help build tomorrow, today.

In short you get: 

• A personalised career path and a rewarding management style 
• A huge diversity of engineering projects and industries
• Private Medical Insurance
• Cycle & Tech Scheme 
• Employee assistance programme
• Life insurance & Pension Scheme
• Social atmosphere, regular gatherings & team buildings
• Flexible way of working (role dependent)

We are proud to support the Armed Forces Covenant & actively encourage applications from members of the Armed Forces community, including veterans, reservists, service leavers, and military spouses/partners. We recognise the value of military skills and experience and are committed to ensuring that no applicant is unfairly disadvantaged during our recruitment and selection processes. 

ALTEN is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and values the strength that comes from a global mix of backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of background or protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. 

This role may require you to have or be willing to go through Security Clearance. As part of the onboarding process candidates will be asked to complete a Baseline Personnel Security Standard; details of the evidence required to apply may be found on the government website Gov.UK. If you are unable to meet this and any associated criteria, then your employment may be delayed, or rejected . Details of this will be discussed with you at interview.