Head of Propulsion Department (m/w/d) Verified today

Head of Propulsion Department

HyPrSpace is developing advanced hybrid rocket engines for civilian and defense aerospace applications. We are creating a new Head of Propulsion Department role to lead our engineering team as we scale toward major flight milestones.

About the role

You will report directly to our CTO/Chief Engineer and lead the propulsion team through the full development lifecycle of our hybrid engines. Your work will shape two flagship launchers: Baguette One and OB-1, both scheduled to fly in 2026 and 2027.

Your core objectives:

• Deliver innovative, efficient hybrid engines for Baguette One and OB-1, ensuring system maturity and readiness for combined 1:1 flight model tests
• Build and execute a global strategy to deepen hybrid propulsion expertise across your team, using in-house 1:20 model test benches and combustion simulations

Key responsibilities

Team management:

• Lead, mentor and energize team members, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration and rigorous testing
• Set ambitious goals, prioritize workstreams, and deliver results on schedule and within budget
• Drive continuous professional development to build the next generation of propulsion experts

Technical oversight:

• Oversee end-to-end design, development and testing of hybrid propulsion systems and rocket engines
• Ensure system integration with focus on performance, reliability and simplicity
• Collaborate across Avionics, Structures, Testing and AIT departments for seamless execution
• Drive innovation in advanced materials, manufacturing techniques and new processes

Strategic contribution:

• Partner with CTO and senior leadership to define propulsion technical roadmap aligned with company goals
• Represent propulsion at high-level meetings and provide technical advice on key decisions
• Build partnerships with suppliers, research organizations and industry leaders

Project and budget management:

• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets and resources, balancing speed and quality
• Identify and mitigate risks, ensuring safety compliance across all systems
• Report progress regularly and rally the team through challenges

About you

Required qualifications:

• Master's degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related field with focus on propulsion systems
• 10+ years of experience in propulsion system design, development and testing, ideally in aerospace or space industry
• Proven leadership experience managing high-performing technical teams and complex engineering projects

Preferred:

• Experience in fast-paced environments where priorities evolve quickly
• Strong network within aerospace and propulsion community

We seek someone open-minded and adaptable, ready to embrace bold ideas and test unconventional approaches, unafraid of failure as a stepping stone to success.

What we offer

• Competitive compensation
• Lunch vouchers (tickets restaurants) for each working day
• 75% of public transportation pass covered
• Flexible working hours
• 300 euro annual sport allowance
• Regular team events
• Equity through BSPCE stock option plan
• Based in Bordeaux

HyPrSpace is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. Our selection process is based on competencies requirements only.