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Aircraft Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We build and operate full-size autonomous cargo aircraft - capable of carrying two tons of payload ... As a Propulsion Engineer at Poseidon Aerospace, you will lead the propulsion team's development ...

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Aircraft Propulsion Engineer information

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How much do aircraft propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 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 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 an aircraft propulsion engineer faces 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 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.

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.

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:

Infographic showing various Aircraft Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,789 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Mid-Level Propulsion Engineer

Torch Technologies, Inc.

Redstone Arsenal, AL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Torch Technologies
Thank you for your interest in employment with Torch Technologies. We are a 100% employee-owned, Certified Great Place To Work and named Best Places to Work in Huntsville/Madison County, headquartered in Huntsville, AL. Our team provides superior research, development, and engineering services to the Federal Government and Department of War. As one of the nation's top 100 defense companies, the services we provide directly support the men and women who serve our country. Our corporate mission sums up the pride our employee-owners take in the work we do: "Lighting the Pathway of Freedom". And, as a Certified Evergreen ESOP, we have made the commitment to grow and sustain our company for the next 100 years! Come grow with us!
Torch Technologies is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Propulsion Engineer to join our dynamic team supporting an Army Aviation Program Management Office (PMO). In this mid-level role, you will lead and support the engineering management, design oversight, integration, and testing of critical aviation propulsion systems. Serving as a key technical resource, you will coordinate directly with contractors, military stakeholders, and airworthiness authorities to ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of our next-generation and legacy aircraft fleets.
This position offers an excellent opportunity to manage complex, cutting-edge military aviation technologies and play a direct role in shaping the future of national defense.
As a Mid-Level Propulsion Engineer your duties will include the following, but are not limited to:
  • Technical Management & Oversight: Lead the technical management and engineering oversight of the design, development, integration, and production of aircraft turbine engines and auxiliary power units (APUs).
  • FADEC Systems Engineering: Manage the integration, verification, and validation of Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) systems and software, ensuring compliance with cyber-security and safety-critical standards.
  • Aircraft Survivability (IRSS): Oversee the design, evaluation, and physical integration of advanced engine exhaust and Infrared Signature (IRS) systems to optimize aircraft survivability.
  • Test & Evaluation (T&E): Oversee the planning, execution, and data analysis of propulsion system ground, laboratory, and flight testing, ensuring compliance with military test protocols.
  • Ancillary Subsystem Integration: Direct the engineering management of critical propulsion subsystems, including fuel control, lubrication, engine starting, and diagnostics/prognostics (health monitoring) systems.
  • Technical Review & Airworthiness: Conduct rigorous engineering reviews of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) technical reports, design specifications, qualification test plans, and Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) to support Airworthiness Releases (AWR).
  • Cross-Functional Leadership: Collaborate with logistics, systems safety, program management, and flight operations to align propulsion engineering schedules and milestones with overall program goals.

Required Qualifications:
  • U.S. Citizenship
  • Bachelor degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • 5+ years of progressive engineering experience in aviation propulsion, turbine engines, or aerospace systems engineering.
  • Active DoD Secret (or higher) Security Clearance.
  • Strong working knowledge of gas turbine thermodynamics, FADEC architecture, engine/airframe physical and functional integration, and military airworthiness qualification processes.
  • Demonstrated experience executing systems engineering processes, including system-level reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR) and technical risk management.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to lead technical meetings and present complex data to military leadership and OEM contractors.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.
  • Prior experience working within or directly supporting a DoD Program Management Office (PMO) or aviation defense program.
  • Familiarity with military standards (e.g., MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-882, MIL-HDBK-516) and the Defense Acquisition University (DAU) framework.
  • Proficiency with propulsion cycle modeling, data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, NPSS), or CAD systems.

Schedule: M-F; 8-5
Work Location: Onsite, Redstone Arsenal
Travel: 10-25%
Relocation Assistance Available: No
Position Contingent Upon Award of Contract: No
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Benefits:
Torch Technologies is proud to offer a stable and professional work environment, a competitive salary, and an excellent, comprehensive benefit package including: ESOP participation, 401(k) match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, Health Saving Accounts and Health Reimbursement Accounts, EAP, education assistance, paid time off, and holidays.
Applying to Torch Technologies:
Only those candidates invited for an interview will be contacted. Employment at Torch Technologies is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, citizenship, ancestry, marital status, protected veteran status, disability status or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. Torch Technologies, Inc. participates in E-Verify.
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access Careers Link as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by sending an email to HR@torchtechnologies.com. Thank you for your interest in Torch Technologies.