Energetics & Chemical Systems Engineer (Field Test Lead)

The Role

At Surge Marine, we don't just build systems on paper; we prove them in the brutal conditions of the North Sea. We are seeking a Chemical Engineer specializing in energetic materials, propellants, or high-hazard chemistry to bridge a critical gap in our subsea payload systems.

You won't just be formulating in a lab—you will be the Lead Test Officer responsible for the chemical stability, safe execution, deployment, and recovery of energetic payloads during live-fire and shock-test sea trials.

The Mission

Energetics Integration: Lead the chemical stability analysis and physical integration of energetic payloads into our Whiplash autonomous platforms.

Ignition & Initiation Chemistry: Design and validate the

thermochemical reliability of fusing sequences. You must ensure zero-fail reaction kinetics when commanded and "always-safe" stability during high-speed, high-shock transit.

Field Test Leadership: Own the "Live Range" environment. You are the final authority on "Go/No-Go" decisions regarding chemical and explosive safety during field testing.

Environmental Hardening: Ensure all energetic compounds, propellants, and triggering mechanisms are "maritime-hardened" against saltwater degradation, extreme vibration, and moisture ingress.

Post-Test Forensic Chemistry: Lead the recovery and "Safe-to?Board" procedures for platforms. Conduct forensic chemical analysis on any misfires, incomplete reactions, or mechanical failures.

Who You Are

You are a rare breed: a disciplined chemical expert with the "sea legs" to operate in high-stress outdoor environments. You understand that a lab test

is just a suggestion—the North Sea is the only validator that matters.

The Essentials:

Technical Background: Degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field, with a strong focus on thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, or high-hazard processes.

Energetics Experience: Practical experience working with energetic materials, solid/liquid propellants, pyrotechnics, or high-pressure gas systems (mining, aerospace, or heavy industrial backgrounds are highly relevant).

Field Operations: Proven track record of leading hazardous field tests, scaling up dangerous chemical processes, or managing pilot plant safety.

Operational Discipline: Deep understanding of chemical stability over time, material compatibility, and the regulations surrounding hazardous material transport.

The "Lead" Mindset: Calm under pressure. You can manage a test team and maintain absolute safety protocol when timelines are tight.

Nationality: Due to the sensitivity of our defense contracts, Dutch or NATO-country nationality and security clearance eligibility are mandatory.

The Surge Offer

We offer a high-octane environment where your work is the literal "spark" that brings our machines to life.

Competitive Salary: Scaled to your technical expertise and seniority.

Equity/Options: We want you to have a stake in the success of the platform you help build.

On-site Hub: Work in our specialized Valkenburg facility, surrounded by the hardware and the team.

No Red Tape: We move fast. If you find a better way to optimize our systems, we implement it.

Adventure: Real-world testing. You'll see your chemistry perform in the North Sea, not just in a simulation.