For questions: robert.vandenouwelant@headfirst.nl

Materials and Processes Engineer | 40 hr | Leiden | Space Industry | Materials Engineering | Start date: January–February 2027 | Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands

Start date: 1 January 2027 (1 February 2027 is the latest possible start date)
Hours: 40 hours per week
Location: Leiden, The Netherlands
Number of positions: 1
Duration: 1 year, with the possibility of permanent employment
Contract type: Detachering (deta-vast)
Education level: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Engineering, Materials Science or a related field
Minimum experience: 3 years
 

Company description

Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands develops and manufactures advanced space systems, including solar arrays, launcher structures and optical communication systems. Based in Leiden, our teams contribute to innovative space programmes for international customers, including the European Space Agency (ESA).

About the role

Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands is looking for a Materials and Processes Engineer to join its Engineering department in Leiden.

You will provide technical expertise on materials selection, manufacturing processes, testing and qualification for space projects. Working closely with engineers, manufacturing teams, suppliers and customers, you will help ensure that materials and processes meet the required technical and quality standards.

The role combines engineering expertise with practical testing, supplier visits and continuous process improvement.
 

Your role & responsibilities

As a Materials and Processes Engineer, you will:

• Advise on material selection, manufacturing processes and qualification for space projects.
• Support material testing, verification, failure analysis and technical investigations.
• Investigate non-conformances and help identify root causes and corrective actions.
• Coordinate laboratory tests and prepare technical reports.
• Support process improvements and the use of digital tools, databases and AI.
• Ensure compliance with relevant technical requirements and ECSS standards.
• Visit suppliers and production facilities to assess processes and support manufacturing activities.
• Collaborate with engineers, suppliers and customers to resolve technical challenges.

Your profile

You are a proactive engineer with a practical mindset, strong analytical skills and excellent communication abilities.

You bring:

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Engineering, Materials Science or a related field.
• At least 3 years of relevant professional experience in materials engineering, manufacturing processes or material testing.
• Knowledge of metallic and composite materials, bonding and joining processes, or material qualification.
• Experience with laboratory testing and failure analysis is an advantage.
• Experience with databases and digital tools is a plus.
• Experience in the space industry and knowledge of ECSS standards are strong advantages.
• Excellent English communication skills; Dutch is not required.
• Residency in the Netherlands and eligibility to access technology subject to export control regulations.
• Willingness to visit suppliers and production facilities when required.

What we offer

• An opportunity to contribute to innovative space programmes.
• A technically challenging role within an international engineering environment.
• Collaboration with engineers, manufacturing teams and external suppliers.
• A one-year deta-vast assignment with the possibility of permanent employment.

Recruitment process

1. First interview: Online with Teamlead

2. Second interview: On-site interview with Marc van Agthove.

For questions: robert.vandenouwelant@headfirst.nl