Propulsion Systems Engineer

Propulsion Systems Engineer

Argotec

San Mauro Torinese, Italy

To support our Company’s growth, we are looking for an enthusiastic Propulsion Systems Engineer who will be part of our Systems Engineering Unit, contributing to the development of innovative and exciting space missions based on Small Satellite satellites, with a primary focus on the Propulsion and AOCS areas as System Engineer.

We foster a collaborative environment where every Argonaut can contribute with their ideas and expertise, create meaningful value together, and transform feedback and mistakes into opportunities for learning and innovation, growing both professionally and personally, as individuals and as a team.

DUTIES

As a Propulsion (AOCS) Systems Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, development, qualification and testing propulsion subsystems (and entire AOCS suite), ensuring their proper integration within the spacecraft architecture and space mission project.

The activities will include (but are not limited to):

• Propulsion subsystems technical lead throughout all mission phases, from initial concept (Phase 0/A) up to in-flight operations (Phase E);
• Perform engineering calculations, analysis, modelling and simulations to calculate Propulsion/AOCS performances;
• Perform technical trade-off, sizing and architecture selection of PS solutions;
• Interface design and management between propulsion and rest of the spacecraft, with a particular focus on the AOCS suite;
• Monitoring, control and review of external partners’ work and design; lead technical meetings and propagation of outcome to the internal project team;
• Support the system engineering plan, design report, development and verification plan;
• Produce technical documentation for reviews with customers, subcontractors and suppliers;
• Support and involvement in spacecraft AIT, AIV and qualification activities with a primary focus GNC/AOCS suite;

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Aerospace, Space Engineering or related technical field;
• At least 2 years of experience in a similar role within the aerospace sector;
• Strong ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary and international teams;
• High degree of flexibility, combined with a proactive and hands‑on approach to technical challenges;
• Ability to work within multidisciplinary and international teams;
• Excellent communication skills and strong team‑oriented mindset;
• Excellent written and oral communication in English.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

• Excellent knowledge of spacecraft AOCS and propulsion architectures;
• Excellent knowledge of spacecraft propulsion system technologies (chemical, cold gas and electrical technologies);
• Excellent knowledge of propulsion performance parameters (Thrust, Specific Impulse, Total Impulse, ecc);
• Knowledge of orbital and attitude dynamics;
• Knowledge of propulsion systems qualification and acceptance test activities (functional, TVAC, vibration, leak and proof, etc.);
• Experience in implementation of propulsion solutions and integration with respect to the spacecraft architecture;
• Ability to work with tight schedules;
• Strong analytical mindset, with the ability to approach complex engineering challenges with structured problem‑solving methods.

ADDITIONAL ASSETS

• Proven experience in implementing AOCS/propulsion suite solutions within Small Satellite platform, from design to in-orbit operations;
• Hands-on experience with proximity operations space missions;
• Participation in project reviews under ESA supervision;
• Practical experience in real-time spacecraft operations, including execution of AOCS maneuvers and spacecraft commissioning;
• Expertise in AOCS/Propulsion FDIR design and implementation;