Senior Propellant Manufacturing Engineer - Solid Rocket Propellant

DavinciAvia is looking for a highly experienced and innovative Senior Propellant Manufacturing Engineer to spearhead the establishment and operation of our small-scale solid propellant production plant. The successful candidate will work closely with our internal R&D department and will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of propellant manufacturing, from plant development to waste disposal. This is a unique opportunity to lead a dedicated team and shape the future of our propellant manufacturing capabilities.

Tasks

• Lead the design, planning, and construction of a new solid propellant manufacturing facility.
• Identify and specify the equipment required for the production of solid propellants.
• Supervise the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of production equipment.
• Ensure the facility meets all industry standards, safety regulations, and company objectives.
• Manage the project timeline, budget, and resources to ensure the timely completion of the plant.
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge in the formulation, mixing, casting, curing, and processing of solid propellants.
• Collaborate with the internal R&D department to develop new propellant formulations.
• Scale-up laboratory formulations for full-scale production, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Optimize production processes to improve yield, performance, and safety.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex production issues to maintain high levels of efficiency and quality.
• Design and fabricate molds and tooling for the production of solid propellant grains.
• Develop and optimize processes for grain production, including casting, curing, and machining.
• Ensure that all grain production activities comply with safety and quality standards.
• Design and implement test equipment and protocols for evaluating the performance and quality of propellant products.
• Ensure that test equipment meets industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Use test data to drive continuous improvement in product quality and process efficiency.
• Develop and implement monitoring systems to ensure the consistent quality of propellant production.
• Conduct regular quality testing and analyze data to maintain high production standards.
• Maintain detailed documentation of all quality control activities.
• Design storage facilities for raw chemicals, finished propellant grains, and rocket motors.
• Ensure the storage facilities comply with all safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Develop protocols for the safe handling and storage of hazardous materials.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive plan for the disposal of process waste and scrap materials.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company policies.
• Develop, document, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all production and cleaning processes.
• Ensure that SOPs are aligned with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Regularly review and update SOPs to reflect changes in processes and regulations.
• Train and mentor junior engineers and assistant personnel in manufacturing techniques, safety protocols, and quality standards.
• Develop and implement training programs to ensure staff are knowledgeable and competent in their roles.
  
  
  

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Education: Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in solid propellant manufacturing, with a strong track record of plant development, process optimization, and team leadership.
  
  
  

Technical Skills:

• Extensive knowledge of propellant chemistry, formulation, and processing techniques.
• Proven experience in scaling up formulations from R&D to full-scale production.
• Expertise in the design and operation of production and testing equipment.
• Familiarity with industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental compliance.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
  
  
  

Project Management:

• Demonstrated ability to lead complex projects, manage budgets, and meet deadlines.
  
  
  

Communication:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams.
  
  
  

Leadership:

• Proven leadership skills with experience in mentoring and developing engineering teams.
  
  
  

Destinus is an equal-opportunity employer: we value diversity in our companies and our teams. We do not discriminate based on age, race, religion, colour, country of origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability status