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Aerospace Propulsion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Firefly Aerospace

Director, Propulsion Engineering

TX · On-site

About Firefly Aerospace As an end-to-end space transportation company, Firefly Aerospace is on a ... About the Role The Propulsion Director provides technical and organizational leadership for the ...

Vast

Propulsion Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$112K - $159K/yr

Minimum Qualifications: * 3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in aerospace, propulsion, or high-reliability fluid systems. * Experience with CAD tools (e.g., Siemens NX) and the ability ...

Shield AI

Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

Dallas, TX

$150K - $230K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline. * 7-10+ years of experience in propulsion testing or aerospace development programs. * Strong ...

North Wind

Propulsion System Engineer

Newport News, VA · On-site

Propulsion System Engineer (Senior and Principal levels considered) The Propulsion System Engineer ... This role contributes to aerospace system design and optimization by delivering accurate numerical ...

Heart Aerospace

Propulsion Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$124K - $216K/yr

At Heart Aerospace we develop the ES-30, a regional hybrid-electric airplane with a capacity of 30 ... Your Mission We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer to join our Dynamic Propulsion team in Torrance ...

Shield AI

Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$150K - $230K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline. * 7-10+ years of experience in propulsion testing or aerospace development programs. * Strong ...

Heart Aerospace

Propulsion Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$124K - $216K/yr

At Heart Aerospace we develop the ES-30, a regional hybrid-electric airplane with a capacity of 30 ... Your Mission We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer to join our Dynamic Propulsion team in Torrance ...

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system. OUR PEOPLE Daring problems require ...

Momentus Space LLC

Propulsion Engineer

San Jose, CA

$130K - $170K/yr

With an experienced team of aerospace, propulsion, and robotics engineers, Momentus has developed a cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transport system. OUR PEOPLE Daring problems require ...

Vast

Propulsion Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$137K - $195K/yr

Minimum Qualifications: * 3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in aerospace, propulsion, or high-reliability fluid systems. * Experience with CAD tools (e.g., Siemens NX) and the ability ...

Busek Co Inc

Space Propulsion Systems Engineer

Natick, MA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Busek is a world leader in aerospace propulsion, developing advanced in-space electric propulsion systems for some of the most ambitious space missions. We are seeking a Space Propulsion Systems ...

Busek

Space Propulsion Systems Engineer

Natick, MA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Busek is a world leader in aerospace propulsion, developing advanced in-space electric propulsion systems for some of the most ambitious space missions. We are seeking a Space Propulsion Systems ...

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How much do aerospace propulsion jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerospace propulsion in the United States is $26.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Aerospace Propulsion position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Aerospace Propulsion, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with propulsion modeling software, CAD tools, and industry certifications such as EIT or PE is highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative development of propulsion systems vital to air and space travel.

What is an Aerospace Propulsion job?

An Aerospace Propulsion job involves the design, development, maintenance, and testing of engines and propulsion systems used in aircraft and spacecraft. Professionals in this field work with jet engines, rocket motors, and other propulsion technologies to ensure efficiency, safety, and performance. They may be responsible for troubleshooting engine issues, improving fuel efficiency, and integrating advanced materials and technologies. Aerospace propulsion specialists are employed by defense organizations, aerospace manufacturers, and government agencies. Their work is critical to advancing air and space travel.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Aerospace Propulsion professional?

Aerospace Propulsion professionals generally spend their days designing, analyzing, and testing propulsion systems such as jet engines, rockets, or turbines. This involves collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams including systems engineers, test technicians, and quality assurance specialists to ensure performance and safety standards are met. You may also be involved in troubleshooting existing propulsion units, updating technical documentation, and supporting research into new engine designs or materials. Continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies are a routine part of this dynamic and innovative role.

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What cities are hiring for Aerospace Propulsion jobs? Cities with the most Aerospace Propulsion job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Propulsion jobs? The most popular types of Aerospace Propulsion jobs are:
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Aerospace Propulsion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Propulsion job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,862 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Director, Propulsion Engineering

Firefly Aerospace

TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Firefly Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

About Firefly Aerospace
As an end-to-end space transportation company, Firefly Aerospace is on a mission to enable our world to
launch, land, and operate in space - anywhere, anytime. Our launch vehicles, lunar landers, and orbital
vehicles provide government and commercial customers with full mission services from low Earth orbit to
the surface of the Moon and beyond. Headquartered in North Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for
passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.
About the Role
The Propulsion Director provides technical and organizational leadership for the design, development, test, qualification, and operation of propulsion systems across Firefly's launch vehicles and spacecraft. This role is accountable for multiple engine and fluid system programs spanning early architecture trades through flight operations.
As a vertically integrated company with co-located design, fabrication, and test facilities, Firefly expects the Propulsion Director to be deeply engaged in hardware development while setting a clear technical vision and execution strategy. The successful candidate balances hands-on technical depth with people leadership, thrives in a fast-paced development environment, and drives a culture of rigorous testing, ownership, and continuous improvement.
The scope of the propulsion engineering department spans launch vehicle engines, spacecraft propulsion, vehicle fluid systems, valve design, and propulsion analysis teams.
Responsibilities
  • Set and own the technical vision, strategy, and execution of all propulsion and fluid systems programs across launch vehicles and spacecraft
  • Lead, develop, and grow a multidisciplinary propulsion organization of ~100 engineers, fostering technical excellence, accountability, and professional growth
  • Maintain ownership of propulsion hardware and systems across the full lifecycle, from requirements definition and architecture trades through qualification, flight, and operations
  • Serve as a senior technical authority for propulsion and fluid systems, supporting major design reviews, test readiness reviews, anomaly resolution, and flight readiness activities
  • Collaborate closely with discipline chief engineers, vehicle chief engineers, and cross-functional teams including structures, avionics, software, manufacturing, integration, quality, and test
  • Drive propulsion system performance, reliability, cost, and manufacturability through disciplined design practices and data-driven decision making
  • Ensure robust risk identification, mitigation, and closure through analysis, testing, and operational feedback
  • Oversee development, qualification, and acceptance testing of propulsion components, subsystems, and engines, with an emphasis on learning-oriented testing
  • Contribute directly to new engine and propulsion technology development, providing technical insight and guidance where needed
  • Establish and uphold engineering standards, best practices, and compliance with applicable industry and government requirements

Qualifications
Required
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field
  • 8+ years of experience in the design, development, and test of aerospace propulsion and/or fluid systems
  • 5+ years of experience leading engineering teams, with demonstrated success delivering complex hardware programs
  • Strong technical foundation in propulsion system design, fluid dynamics, combustion, turbomachinery, thermodynamics, and thermal systems as well as a demonstrated ability to apply these first principles to arrive at simple, robust solutions
  • Demonstrated experience owning hardware from early concept through testing, qualification, and operation
  • Hands-on experience driving performance, reliability, or design-for-manufacturability initiatives
  • Deep understanding of cryogenic and storable propellant systems
  • Working knowledge of relevant aerospace standards and requirements (e.g., SMC-S-016, SMC-S-025)
  • Working knowledge of manufacturing, fabrication, integration, and quality control relevant to fluid components (such as machining, inspection, assembly, testing, etc.)
  • Knowledge of fluid components such as valves, regulators, pressure transducers, tubing, pressurized hardware, seals, and instrumentation and experience performing fluid systems sizing analysis with such components
  • Proven ability to rapidly develop solutions with partially defined or evolving requirements
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to represent propulsion programs to internal and external stakeholders

Desired Qualifications
  • Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent field
  • Extensive experience developing and operating liquid rocket engines, launch vehicles, or spacecraft
  • In-depth knowledge of cryogenic, high-pressure, or high-temperature system operations
  • Experience with fluid system subcomponent or pressurized component development, design, or testing (such as valves, regulators, piping systems, pumps, etc.)
  • Familiarity with multiple engine cycle architectures (e.g., gas generator, staged combustion, full-flow staged combustion)
  • Proven ability to build and sustain a high-performing engineering culture centered on ownership, learning, and execution
  • Demonstrated experience with full hardware lifecycle ownership, from blank-sheet design through full operation
  • Demonstrated passion for advancing propulsion technology and integrating emerging capabilities into an executable roadmap

Disclaimer
Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and
vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, educational reimbursement, short term
disability, and flexible PTO options.
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in
Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected
individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the
U.S. Department of State.
Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on
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.

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