R&D Program Manager, Hengelo

Imagine this... you’re not just managing timelines and budgets, you’re steering the future of hypersonic propulsion systems. At Destinus, we don’t just build engines, we build breakthroughs. As our new R&D Program Manager - Turbojet Engines, you’ll jump right into the beating heart of our aerospace propulsion team, where innovation meets execution. This role is a rare mix: part engineer, part orchestrator, all-in on impact. From small-scale jet engines to next-gen hypersonic propulsion, you’ll be tracking progress while staying close to the tech that’s changing aerospace.

At Destinus, we are revolutionizing the defense industry with cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Our innovative technologies are designed to meet the unique demands of modern defense operations, delivering unparalleled speed, precision, and cost effectiveness. Destinus partners with government agencies and defense organizations worldwide to provide advanced solutions for mission-critical operations, enabling a new era of efficiency and technological superiority. Join us in shaping the future of defense with groundbreaking aerospace innovations.

What You’ll Do Lead with precision – own project plans, timelines, risk registers, and resource tracking like a mission commander. Keep our propulsion programs moving with weekly syncs, milestone reviews, and crystal-clear documentation. Be the right hand of the Chief Engineer – translate vision into execution, coordinate cross-functional teams, and make sure no ball drops.Dive deep into the tech– join and drive technical reviews, support and drive design cycles, and understand every curve and turbine blade in our propulsion products. Guide seamless transitions between development phases – from CAD to the test bench and beyond. Own supplier coordination, procurement, and even jump into test planning when needed.Keep change control and configuration management tight, so nothing slows us down.

What You’ll Need Must-Have You’ve got a degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or a related engineering field. You’ve spent at least 5 years wrangling complex projects in aerospace or turbo machinery. You know your way around gas turbines or aircraft engines – not just from afar, but hands-on.You’re a wizard at project management tools and documentation. You know how to lead, but also how to listen and adapt in a highly technical environment. You can talk tech and timelines with equal fluency. Strong defense mindset: experience working in defense programs, military environments, or highly regulated aerospace sectors is highly valued.This is a purely engineering-driven role– you must be comfortable operating as an engineer first, with deep technical involvement in design, testing, and propulsion systems, not just project coordination.

Nice-to-Have Startup or small company vibes don’t scare you – in fact, you thrive there. You’ve worked on prototypes and fast testing loops. You know a thing or two about propulsion regulations like EASA or FAA.