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Aerospace Engineer Propulsion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerospace Engineer - Midlevel

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$110K - $180K/yr

Overview Aerospace Engineer - Midlevel Job Location: Dahlgren, Virginia Job Status: Full Time ... Development of aerodynamics, mass properties, propulsion, guidance, navigation and control inputs ...

Overview Aerospace Engineer - Midlevel Job Location: Dahlgren, Virginia Job Status: Full Time ... Development of aerodynamics, mass properties, propulsion, guidance, navigation and control inputs ...

With offices in Boston and Peabody, MA, Specter leverages its advanced propulsion technologies ... Our Aerospace Engineer I/II will be based in our Boston (Seaport) office. Funded by a mix of ...

With offices in Boston and Peabody, MA, Specter leverages its advanced propulsion technologies ... Our Aerospace Engineer III/IV will be based in our Boston (Seaport) office. Funded by a mix of ...

Aero space Engineer III-IV Specter Aerospace is seeking an Aerospace Engineer III-IV to support the ... advanced propulsion technologies, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to rapidly develop ...

Specter Aerospace is seeking an Aerospace Engineer I/II to support the design and analysis of high ... advanced propulsion technologies, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to rapidly develop ...

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose ... The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering ...

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose ... The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering ...

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose ... The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering ...

About the Role At Haast, Aerospace Engineers bridge the gap between aircraft physics, design ... Diagnose issues--whether aerodynamic, controls, structure, propulsion, sensors, or operations

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose ... The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering ...

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose ... The Energetics and Propulsion Department is an engineering organization in the Hardware Engineering ...

Showing results 41-60

Aerospace Engineer Propulsion information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do aerospace engineer propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace engineer propulsion in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerospace engineer propulsion?

Aerospace Engineer Propulsion professionals are engineers who specialize in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining propulsion systems for aircraft and spacecraft. This includes working on engines, turbines, rockets, and other technologies that generate thrust to move vehicles through air or space. They apply principles of physics, fluid dynamics, and thermodynamics to create efficient and reliable propulsion systems. Their work is essential for ensuring that aerospace vehicles achieve the necessary speed, altitude, and performance for their missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace engineer propulsion?

To thrive as an Aerospace Engineer in Propulsion, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, with expertise in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and propulsion systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS or MATLAB, and industry-specific certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills set candidates apart in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design and testing of propulsion systems critical to aerospace performance.

What are the main challenges an aerospace engineer propulsion typically faces during a project?

Aerospace Engineers working in propulsion often encounter challenges related to balancing performance, weight, and efficiency while meeting strict safety and regulatory standards. They must frequently troubleshoot complex engine issues, optimize systems for fuel efficiency, and integrate new technologies within tight project deadlines. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including structural engineers, materials scientists, and test technicians—is essential to ensure that propulsion systems meet both design and operational requirements. Adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and staying current with industry advancements also pose ongoing challenges in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Aerospace Engineer Propulsion vs Aerospace Engineer Structures?

AspectAerospace Engineer PropulsionAerospace Engineer Structures
Primary FocusDesign, development, and testing of propulsion systems like engines and thrustersDesign and analysis of aircraft and spacecraft structural components
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aerospace or mechanical engineering; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in aerospace or mechanical engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentLabs, testing facilities, manufacturing plantsDesign offices, testing labs, manufacturing sites
Industry UsageAircraft, spacecraft, missile systemsAircraft, spacecraft, satellite structures

Both roles require a strong engineering background and similar credentials, but Aerospace Engineer Propulsion specializes in propulsion systems, while Aerospace Engineer Structures focuses on structural integrity. They often collaborate but have distinct technical expertise within the aerospace industry.

Are aerospace engineer propulsion in demand?

Aerospace engineers specializing in propulsion are in demand due to ongoing advancements in aircraft and spacecraft technology, as well as the need for more efficient and sustainable propulsion systems. The field offers opportunities in government agencies, defense, and commercial aerospace companies, often requiring skills in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and CAD tools.

What states have the most Aerospace Engineer Propulsion jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aerospace Engineer Propulsion jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Engineer Propulsion jobs?

For Aerospace Engineer Propulsion jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineer Propulsion job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Senior Engineer - Propulsion Systems

Redondo Beach, CA

Impulse Space
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$140K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Own all aspects of in-house propulsion system design, analysis, implementation, and operation.

  • Drive propulsion system development, including requirements definition, design, analysis, testing, and risk mitigation.

  • Perform on-orbit mission support, including flight data reviews and anomaly resolution.


Job description

Description
As a Senior Engineer - Propulsion Systems at Impulse Space, you will own all aspects of in-house propulsion system design, analysis, implementation and operation while working closely with a fast-paced, agile team that produces high-performance spacecraft from clean sheet designs. 

Responsibilities
  • Serve as a Responsible Propulsion Engineer for one of Impulse’s in-space propulsion systems, which includes bipropellant thrusters, pressure components and vessels 
  • Drive propulsion system development and implementation including:  
  • System requirements definition, design and analysis  
  • Schedule formulation, tracking, and resource allocation  
  • Hardware and software configuration definition  
  • Build and test work scope and order-of-operations  
  • Create and execute development, acceptance and qualification test campaigns  
  • Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies 
  • Perform on-orbit mission support including flight data reviews and anomaly resolution 
  • Work with wide-ranging teams across engineering, manufacturing, testing and operations to deliver a reliable, high-performance and highly integrated system 
  • Hands-on experience designing, building and working with fluid, mechanical, and electrical systems 
  • Manage internal and external stakeholders to ensure system alignment and transparency 
  • Resolve technical issues with innovative resourceful solutions 


Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or science 
  • 5+ years of demonstrated experience in the aerospace propulsion field 
  • Demonstrated experience working on bipropellant rocket propulsion systems 
  • Proficiency in basic principles of fluids, thermodynamics, heat transfer, mechanics and materials 
  • Ability to perform system trades ranging from thermal-fluids analyses to materials selection 
  • Demonstrated ability of taking project ownership and working collaboratively with small teams 


Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Master’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering and 7+ years of demonstrated experience in the aerospace propulsion field.  
  • Prior experience working on hardware development projects with cost and schedule constraints for key propulsion system design elements (thrusters, valves, and/or pressure vessels) 
  • Proficiency in CAD software with ability to learn new tools 
  • Demonstrated experience in leading multiple projects for ground test and flight propulsion systems 
  • Create, modify and execute test sequences and procedures for high pressure development and flight hardware systems 
  • Demonstrated experience working with in-space propulsion systems including support of preflight mission analysis and on-orbit mission operations  
  • Familiarity with NASA and DoD standards regarding spaceflight propulsion specifications and standards 
  • Familiarity with a fluids analysis tools such as SINDA/FLUINT, GFSSP or similar 
  • Proficiency in CAD software with ability to learn new tools 
  • Experience in a startup or agile development environment 
  • Experience working with saturated fluid systems 

Additional Information:
Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
Impulse Space’s spacecraft manufacturing business is subject to U.S. export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This position requires applicants to be either U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent U.S. resident (green card holder), an individual granted asylum in the U.S., or an individual admitted in U.S. refugee status) or persons eligible to obtain an export license from the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, or other applicable U.S. government agencies. Learn more about the ITAR here.  
Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.