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Head of Launch segment (f/m/x)
Job Description
Req ID:  3792
Place of work:  Trauen
Starting date:  01.03.2026
Career level:  Managers, Experienced professionals
Type of employment:  Full-time
Duration of contract:  Zunächst auf 3 Jahre befristet

Remuneration: Remuneration is in accordance with the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector - Federal Government (TVöD-Bund)
Hint: Security clearance as well as the willingness to security clearance pursuant to §§ 8 ff. Security Clearance Act (SÜG) is a condition for employment at DLR

Enter the fascinating world of the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V.; DLR) and help shape the future through research and innovation! We offer an exciting and inspiring working environment driven by the expertise and curiosity of our 11,000 employees from 100 nations and our unique infrastructure. Together, we develop sustainable technologies and thus contribute to finding solutions to global challenges. Would you like to join us in addressing this major future challenge? Then this is your place!

DLR's Responsive Space Cluster Competence Competence Centre (RSC³) in Trauen is a unique research facility in Germany that addresses in a holistic way the topic of Responsive Space. This exciting field of research deals with the question of how to respond faster, more flexibly and securely in space with the goal of increasing the overall resilience of critical infrastructures in space. To this end, innovative concepts and technologies are analyzed, developed and demonstrated at the RSC³. 

 

What to expect

The Launch Segment department is primarily concerned with research activities on the topics of launch systems for small satellites, microlaunchers, upper stage technologies, hybrid and solid propulsion systems as well as higher-level research aspects relating to vertical and horizontal launches.  

 

The main areas of research are

  • design and further development of ground and airborne launch systems, launch facilities and ground infrastructure, taking into account responsive space conditions (configuration design, storage capability, rapid launch capability, etc.).
  • design, further development and performance enhancement of propulsion systems for Responsive Space launchers (including solid, gel and hybrid propulsion systems) including testing and validation with ground test facilities
  • design, further development and performance enhancement of upper stages for the precise placement of small satellites in orbit (controllability, re-ignitability, de-orbiting capability)
  • development of concepts and simulation environments for launch control, flight control and airspace integration

 

The Launch Segment department is headquartered in Trauen.

 

Your tasks

  • disciplinary management of the assigned personnel
  • design and management of strategic processes
  • processing technical organisational tasks / management of the assigned department
  • public relations / performing representative tasks
  • initiation of third-party funded projects

 

Your profile

  • completed scientific university degree (Master / Diploma Uni) in engineering (e.g. in the field of aerospace engineering) or natural sciences (e.g. chemistry) or other degree programmes relevant to the position
  • in-depth expertise in the fields of launch systems and launch technologies, launch operations and infrastructure, e.g. acquired through a doctorate or other proven research activities
  • knowledge in the field of rocket engine development and optimisation as well as scientific operation of rocket engine test benches
  • sound industry knowledge, e.g. from the areas of space and launch service providers; propulsion and energy systems (in particular solid-fuel and hybrid rocket engines, as well as green propulsion technologies); networking with industry, research institutions and users from the defence and security sector
  • very good knowledge of and experience in the technical and disciplinary management of teams / groups / departments proven by practical experience or participation in relevant seminars
  • knowledge of and experience in working with ministries and committees
  • very good knowledge of the task-related research landscape and its stakeholders
  • many years of experience in project management and in the technical management and coordination of projects

We offer

DLR stands for diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We promote independent work and the individual development of our employees both personally and professionally. To this end, we offer numerous training and development opportunities. Equal opportunities are of particular importance to us, which is why we want to increase the proportion of women in science and management in particular. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are qualified.

We look forward to getting to know you!

If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy-ID 3792) please contact:

Olaf Heintze 
Tel.: +49 531 295 3387