ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Aircraft Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Engineer III

Adelanto, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

This role focuses on hands-on engineering across propulsion installation design, engine test stand development, prototype aircraft design, and first-article propulsion builds. The Engineer III will ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAircraft Propulsion Engineer Jobs

Aircraft Propulsion Engineer information

See salary details

$48.5K

$80.8K

$119K

How much do aircraft propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for aircraft propulsion engineer in the United States is $80,789.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $95,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Aircraft propulsion engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in senior positions or specialized industries. High compensation often involves working for major aerospace companies, holding advanced degrees, and possessing certifications in propulsion systems or related fields.

What does an Aircraft Propulsion Engineer do?

An Aircraft Propulsion Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining the systems that power aircraft, such as jet engines, turboprops, and rocket engines. They work on improving engine efficiency, safety, and performance, often collaborating with other engineers to integrate propulsion systems into the overall aircraft design. Their work also includes troubleshooting issues, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and researching new technologies to advance propulsion systems.

What are the main challenges Aircraft Propulsion Engineers face when working on new engine designs?

Aircraft Propulsion Engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing performance, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Designing new engines requires careful consideration of fuel efficiency, emission standards, safety requirements, and the integration of emerging technologies. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, such as aerodynamics experts and materials scientists, is essential to address these complexities and deliver innovative, reliable propulsion systems within project timelines.

What is the difference between Aircraft Propulsion Engineer vs Aircraft Maintenance Engineer?

AspectAircraft Propulsion EngineerAircraft Maintenance Engineer
Primary FocusDesign, development, and testing of aircraft engines and propulsion systemsInspection, repair, and maintenance of aircraft systems to ensure safety and airworthiness
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in propulsion systems, possibly professional engineer licenseAircraft maintenance engineer license, technical certifications, relevant experience
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, testing facilities, engineering officesAirports, maintenance hangars, repair stations
Industry UsageAircraft manufacturing, aerospace research, engine developmentCommercial airlines, maintenance companies, repair organizations

While both roles are essential in the aviation industry, an Aircraft Propulsion Engineer focuses on designing and developing aircraft engines, whereas an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer handles the upkeep and repair of aircraft to ensure safety and compliance. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What is the salary of a propulsion engineer?

The salary of an aircraft propulsion engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills or working in high-cost areas can earn higher salaries, and additional benefits may include bonuses and professional development opportunities.

How much do jet propulsion engineers make?

Jet propulsion engineers, also known as aircraft propulsion engineers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills or working in high-demand areas can earn higher salaries, and many roles require a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field along with relevant certifications.

What engineers make $500,000?

Aircraft propulsion engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles or specialized aerospace leadership positions. Top-tier aerospace engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities may reach high six-figure incomes, especially in senior management or consulting roles, but this is not typical for standard engineering positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aircraft Propulsion Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Propulsion Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, advanced knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and propulsion systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, CAD tools, and industry standards such as FAA regulations is crucial, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) being advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and conveying technical information. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative development of propulsion systems that meet strict performance and regulatory requirements.
More about Aircraft Propulsion Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft Propulsion Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Aircraft Propulsion Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Aircraft Propulsion Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aircraft Propulsion Engineer jobs are:
Aircraft Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,789 per year, or $38.8 per hour.
Propulsion Engineer (Propulsion Analysis - Air)

Propulsion Engineer (Propulsion Analysis - Air)

Boeing

Seal Beach, CA • On-site

$126K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 599 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 527 rated manufacturers

Job description

Propulsion Engineer (Propulsion Analysis - Air)
Company:
The Boeing Company
The Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) Division is looking for Propulsion Engineer (Experienced or Senior) in Seal Beach, CA.
Propulsion Service Engineering is seeking an experienced engineer to join the 777/777X or all other Boeing aircraft models in the role of Main Engines Service Engineer. This fast-paced, dynamic team delivers exceptional, around-the-clock customer support-24/7, 365 days a year-ensuring our airline customers receive timely and effective technical solutions.
In this critical role, you will serve as a key technical resource, directly addressing customer inquiries and advocating for their needs within Boeing. You will manage both urgent, short-term
issues and longer-term, predictive proactive projects. Your work will involve independent research, as well as close collaboration with internal engineering teams, suppliers, and external
partners to resolve complex propulsion system challenges.
Our teams are currently hiring for a broad range of experience levels including; Experienced and Senior Propulsion Engineers.
Key Priorities:
  • Monitor and identify potential in-service risks and issues, developing and executing mitigation plans to support a smooth and successful return into service
  • Review and verify Customer Support documentation, including the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) and Fault Isolation Manual (FIM)
  • Create and update technical communications such as Fleet Team Digest (FTD) articles, Service Letters (SL), and Maintenance Tips (MT) to keep customers informed and supported

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Applies engineering expertise to investigate and resolve technical, operational, and quality issues reported by airline customers, delivering interim and final engineering solutions
  • Communicates effectively with airlines and internal stakeholders to address questions and reported problems
  • Evaluates event reports for potential safety concerns and take appropriate action
  • Troubleshoots aircraft propulsion issues using a variety of resources, including airline data, engineering databases, supplier information, and maintenance publications
  • Leads and manages projects aimed at resolving fleet-wide issues and improving system reliability
  • Develops and delivers presentations on in-service issues to review boards, management, suppliers, and airline customers
  • Participates in support teams and provide on-site technical assistance at airline locations as needed

Work Environment: This position requires flexibility to support a fleet operating 24/7/365. Occasional off-shift work may be necessary to respond to emergent issues and participate in critical airline meetings outside regular business hours .
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry
  • 5+ years of experience in aerospace

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
  • 9 or more years' related work experience or an equivalent
  • 3+ years of experience with main engine
  • Broad engineering experience, ideally including service engineering, design engineering, field service, maintenance engineering, and/or customer and logistics support
  • Strong familiarity with Boeing processes and drawing systems
  • Knowledge of Engine Systems, Propulsion Systems, and Installations is strongly desired
  • Experience with My Boeing Fleet, customer and supplier collaboration, and responding to Service Requests via the Boeing Communication System is preferred

Conflict of Interest:
Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.
Drug Free Workplace:
Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Total Rewards & Pay Transparency:
At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary pay range Experienced (Level 3): $126,900 - $155,100
Summary pay range Senior (Level 4): $154,800 - $189,200
Language Requirements:
Not Applicable
Education:
Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent
Relocation:
This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.
Export Control Requirement:
This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Safety Sensitive:
This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.
Security Clearance:
This position does not require a Security Clearance.
Visa Sponsorship:
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.
Contingent Upon Award Program
This position is not contingent upon program award
Shift:
Shift 1 (United States of America)
Stay safe from recruitment fraud! The only way to apply for a position at Boeing is via our Careers website. Learn how to protect yourself from recruitment fraud - Recruitment Fraud Warning
Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
EEO is the law
Boeing EEO Policy
Request an Accommodation
Applicant Privacy
Boeing Participates in E - Verify
  • E-Verify (English)
  • E-Verify (Spanish)

Right to Work Statement
  • Right to Work (English)
  • Right to Work (Spanish)

What Boeing employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply