The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our ...
PT Contract Class A Welder
Broken Arrow, OK · On-site
$17 - $22.50/hr
... combustion research and testing facilities. Zeeco subsidiaries reside in Plainville Connecticut, USA, Houston Texas, USA, United Kingdom, South Korea, India, Brazil, China, Mexico, Singapore, Saudi ...
PT Contract Class A Welder
Broken Arrow, OK · On-site
$17 - $22.50/hr
... combustion research and testing facilities. Zeeco subsidiaries reside in Plainville Connecticut, USA, Houston Texas, USA, United Kingdom, South Korea, India, Brazil, China, Mexico, Singapore, Saudi ...
PT Contract Class A Welder
$17 - $22.50/hr
... combustion research and testing facilities. Zeeco subsidiaries reside in Plainville Connecticut, USA, Houston Texas, USA, United Kingdom, South Korea, India, Brazil, China, Mexico, Singapore, Saudi ...
PT Contract Class A Welder
$17 - $22.50/hr
... combustion research and testing facilities. Zeeco subsidiaries reside in Plainville Connecticut, USA, Houston Texas, USA, United Kingdom, South Korea, India, Brazil, China, Mexico, Singapore, Saudi ...
... combustion research and testing facilities. Zeeco subsidiaries reside in Plainville Connecticut, USA, Houston Texas, USA, United Kingdom, South Korea, India, Brazil, China, Mexico, Singapore, Saudi ...
... combustion research and testing facilities. Zeeco subsidiaries reside in Plainville Connecticut, USA, Houston Texas, USA, United Kingdom, South Korea, India, Brazil, China, Mexico, Singapore, Saudi ...
Mechanical Engineer (Industrial Combustion)
Danbury, CT · On-site
$80K - $160K/yr
You will be working on project applications and in the R&D group to continue to lead the industry ... Experience in combustion systems and renewable fuels is a plus. Entry to Senior Level position. Pay ...
Quick apply
Mechanical Engineer (Industrial Combustion)
Danbury, CT · On-site
$80K - $160K/yr
You will be working on project applications and in the R&D group to continue to lead the industry ... Experience in combustion systems and renewable fuels is a plus. Entry to Senior Level position. Pay ...
Drafter/Designer
Plainville, CT · On-site
... combustion research and testing facilities. Zeeco subsidiaries reside in Plainville Connecticut, USA, Houston Texas, USA, United Kingdom, South Korea, India, Brazil, China, Mexico, Singapore, Saudi ...
Drafter/Designer
Plainville, CT · On-site
... combustion research and testing facilities. Zeeco subsidiaries reside in Plainville Connecticut, USA, Houston Texas, USA, United Kingdom, South Korea, India, Brazil, China, Mexico, Singapore, Saudi ...
Combustion Research information
See salary details
$22.60 - $26.46
1% of jobs
$26.46 - $30.33
5% of jobs
$30.33 - $34.20
6% of jobs
$37.99 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$34.20 - $38.07
13% of jobs
$38.07 - $41.94
17% of jobs
The median wage is $43.20 / hr.
$41.94 - $45.80
24% of jobs
$48.46 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$45.80 - $49.67
13% of jobs
$49.67 - $53.54
6% of jobs
$53.54 - $57.41
5% of jobs
$57.41 - $61.28
3% of jobs
$61.28 - $65.14
6% of jobs
$22
$45
$65
How much do combustion research jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for combustion research in the United States is $45.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.98 and $50.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a Combustion Research job?
A Combustion Research job involves studying the chemical and physical processes of combustion to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance safety in various applications. Researchers in this field work on engines, industrial burners, gas turbines, and alternative fuels. They use experimental methods and computational models to analyze combustion behavior. The role is common in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and environmental science.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Combustion Research position, and why are they important?
To excel in Combustion Research, a strong background in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related scientific field is essential, along with experience in thermodynamics and reaction kinetics. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, combustion modeling software, and safety protocols—often supported by advanced degrees or certifications—is highly valued. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills that facilitate problem-solving and collaboration. These skills collectively enable researchers to develop innovative solutions while maintaining safety and efficiency in complex research environments.
What are some common challenges faced in a Combustion Research position?
Professionals in Combustion Research often encounter complex challenges such as accurately modeling combustion processes, ensuring experimental safety, and interpreting intricate data sets. The role typically involves working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team that may include engineers, chemists, and project managers. Staying current with advances in environmental regulations and new combustion technologies can also be demanding, but it is essential for ongoing innovation. Overcoming these challenges offers valuable experience, the opportunity to contribute to cleaner energy solutions, and potential pathways to senior research or leadership positions.
More about Combustion Research jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Combustion Research jobs? The most popular types of Combustion Research jobs are:
What states have the most Combustion Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Combustion Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Combustion Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Combustion Research jobs are:
ENGINEER - RESEARCH ENGINEER - Gas Turbine Combustion System Engineer
Southwest Research Institute - FulltimeSan Antonio, TX
Full-time
Posted 4 days ago
Southwest Research Institute rating
8.8
Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
6th of 56 rated research
Job description
Who We Are: The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of industrial heat and power, liquid propulsion, gas turbine combustion, and air-breathing propulsion. Our technologies are powering a cleaner future and advancing state-of-the-art propulsion for air and space flight. Objectives of this Role: Support the design, analysis, and testing of systems and components used in a variety of propulsion and energy processes.
Typical application areas include: supercritical CO2 oxy-fuel combustion systems, gas turbine combustion systems, solid-fuel combustion systems, RDEs, and various high speed propulsion applications. Apply principles of machine design, piping/pressure vessel design, process controls and instrumentation, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer to develop test systems and specify components. Many systems operate at extreme pressure and temperature conditions.
Apply knowledge of fabrication methods, assembly, and geometric dimensioning & tolerance (GD&T) to ensure components are designed in a way that can be manufactured and assembled. Utilize CAD software (Solidworks) to develop mechanical designs and visualize component fitments and assemblies. Communicate ideas, results, and other information to coworkers as well as commercial and government clients.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities: Provide analytical and experimental support to more than one project in a team environment. Typical tasks include literature reviews, design, analysis, and simulation development. Use commercial engineering software for design and analysis, such as ANSYS Workbench or ANSYS APDL.
Provide mechanical and machine design support for a variety of applications that include power generation, propulsion, and combustion. As needed, work across the Institute to draw on the experience from thousands of engineers and technicians. Contribute and be responsible for technical development of experimental test programs, including developing/operating a new test rig.
Take responsibility for testing/rig modifications to meet new project objectives. Support the technical work of other engineers and technicians. Assess the best approach to solve problems and interrogate results for reliability.
Provide troubleshooting support for tests and simulations with a firm understanding of theories and concepts using a first-principles approach. Perform mechanical design tasks at the technical direction of senior engineers in support of projects/proposal efforts. Be a problem solver that exercises creativity and judgment to help a team of engineers determine new approaches to solve a wide range of technical problems.
Requirements: Requires a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related engineering degree. 0-5 years: Mechanical design experience applying tools like FEA to predict component/assembly stresses and evaluate fitness for service. 0-5 years: Design, commissioning, and testing experience with high pressure and/or extreme temperature (cryogenic or combustion) process systems.
0-5 years: Experience with industry standards, such as ASME Pressure Vessel Code, ASME B31 Piping Codes, machine assembly, maintenance, and repair. A valid/clear driver's license is required.
What Southwest Research Institute employees say
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About Southwest Research Institute
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Industry
Scientific research and development services
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
San Antonio, TX, US