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Aircraft Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shield AI

Propulsion Test Engineer (R4380)

Wichita, KS · On-site

$150K - $230K/yr

Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation ... You will work closely with propulsion engineers, flight test teams, autonomy developers ...

Stratolaunch

$98 - $200/hr

Propulsion Systems Manufacturing Engineer Mojave, California, United States | Manufacturing ... Direct hands‑on experience with aircraft Propulsion Systems, installation and best practices

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Aircraft Propulsion Engineer information

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$48.5K

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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:

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 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.

Staff Propulsion Engineer, Air Vehicles (Air Breathing Engine Integration)

Anduril Industries

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

$220K - $292K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Serve as a lead or key contributor in the selection, architecting, and integration of aircraft engines, engine components, and engine controls on unmanned air vehicles (UAVs).

  • Design, fabricate, and test prototype components and control systems.

  • Plan, instrument, and execute tests of aircraft propulsion systems.

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 76,770 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century's most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.
ABOUT THE TEAM
The Air Dominance & Strike Propulsion Integration team is responsible for designing and integrating advanced hardware for Group 5 air vehicles and across missile platforms. Air Dominance & Strike Propulsion Engineers own the full development lifecycle, from concept generation, to integration and flight test, ensuring high-performance, resilient, and scalable mechanical systems that meet the demands of complex, contested environments.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Serve as a lead or key contributor in the selection, architecting, and integration of aircraft engines, engine components, and engine controls on unmanned air vehicles (UAVs).
  • Design, fabricate, and test prototype components and control systems.
  • Plan, instrument, and execute tests of aircraft propulsion systems.
  • Coordinate with engine vendors, develop strategic partnerships, and manage development projects.
  • Lead or support critical hardware demonstrations with customers as needed.
  • Critical member of team supporting CAD design for inlet / exhaust shaping, surfaces and structures.
  • Travel to test sites as needed.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering.
  • 12+ years of propulsion engineering experience on air vehicles (manned or unmanned).
  • Professional experience with jet engines in the 250-20,000 lbf thrust class.
  • Experience leading the integration of propulsion systems into air vehicles; acting as the technical authority for major subsystems.
  • Experience utilizing, customizing, or tailoring thermodynamic engine cycle decks to perform installed engine performance predictions.
  • Experience defining comprehensive propulsion test programs and troubleshooting anomalies.
  • Experience designing mechanical parts and surface loft (CAD) with the ability to perform design reviews and provide detailed technical feedback to other engineers.
  • Understanding of manufacturing methods (machining, sheet metal, composites, 3D printing, injection molding, etc.).
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience in NX / Teamcenter, Python, MATLAB, IADs.
  • Hands-on experience with jet engine testing including test practices, instrumentation, and data processing.
  • Previous work experience at a jet engine OEM or supplier, with a deep understanding of engine performance trade-offs.
  • Knowledge and experience working with FADEC, Engine Management Systems (EMS), or equivalent aircraft engine control systems.
  • Experience procuring parts and working in a machine shop. Working knowledge of machine safety and shop safety protocols.
  • Active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.

US Salary Range
$220,000-$292,000 USD
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
Benefits
At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you're supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.
Protecting Yourself from Recruitment Scams
Anduril is committed to maintaining the integrity of our Talent acquisition process and the security of our candidates. We've observed a rise in sophisticated phishing and fraudulent schemes where individuals impersonate Anduril representatives, luring job seekers with false interviews or job offers. These scammers often attempt to extract payment or sensitive personal information.
To ensure your safety and help you navigate your job search with confidence, please keep the following critical points in mind:
  • No Financial Requests: Anduril will never solicit payment or demand personal financial details (such as banking information, credit card numbers, or social security numbers) at any stage of our hiring process. Our legitimate recruitment is entirely free for candidates.
  • Please always verify communications:
    • Direct from Anduril: If you receive an email from one of our recruiters, it will only come from an @anduril.com address.
    • Via Agency Partner: If contacted by a recruiting agency for an Anduril role, their email will clearly identify their agency. If you suspect any suspicious activity, please verify the agency's authenticity by reaching out to contact@anduril.com.
  • Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Outreach: If you receive any communication that appears suspicious, contains grammatical errors, or makes unusual requests, do not engage. Always confirm the sender's email domain is @anduril.com before providing any personal information or clicking on links.
  • What to Do If You Suspect Fraud: Should you encounter any questionable or fraudulent outreach claiming to be from Anduril, please report it immediately to contact@anduril.com. Your proactive caution is invaluable in protecting your personal information and upholding the security and trustworthiness of our recruitment efforts.

Data Privacy
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://anduril.com/applicant-privacy-notice/.
By submitting your application, you consent to Anduril Industries using a third-party service provider to conduct pre-employment risk, integrity, and due diligence screening and assessing potential risks as part of your application process. This third-party service provider provides risk-intelligence services that may include analysis of sanctions and watchlists, adverse media, public-record information, and other lawful open-source or commercial data sources. This third-party service provider does not act as a consumer reporting agency. Use of this provider helps to ensure compliance with applicable laws and protect technology, intellectual property, and organizational security.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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