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Combustion Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Altus LLC

CFD Propulsion Research Engineer

Aberdeen, MD · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

... evaluate combustion behavior and propulsion dynamics for gun, rocket, and air-breathing systems ... research institutions, and other technical audiences as required. Qualifications/Desired Skills ...

FM

Senior Research Scientist

Norwood, MA · On-site

$111K - $141K/yr

Strong fundamental background in combustion, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and applied ... Research experience involving experimental heat transfer measurement, battery failure analysis ...

FM

Senior Research Scientist

Norwood, MA · On-site

$111K - $141K/yr

Strong fundamental background in combustion, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and applied ... Research experience involving experimental heat transfer measurement, battery failure analysis ...

FM

Senior Research Scientist

Norwood, MA · On-site

$111K - $141K/yr

Strong fundamental background in combustion, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and applied ... Research experience involving experimental heat transfer measurement, battery failure analysis ...

FM

Senior Research Scientist

Norwood, MA · On-site

$111K - $141K/yr

Strong fundamental background in combustion, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and applied ... Research experience involving experimental heat transfer measurement, battery failure analysis ...

FM

Senior Research Scientist

Norwood, MA · On-site

$121K/yr

Strong fundamental background in combustion, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and applied ... Research experience involving experimental heat transfer measurement, battery failure analysis ...

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How much do combustion research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 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?

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 combustion research?

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 combustion research?

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.

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States with the most job openings for Combustion Research jobs include:

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Combustion Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Combustion Research job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,688 per year, or $45 per hour.

RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Mechanical Designer/Engineer for Propulsion System

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Southwest Research Institute
Scientific Research and Development Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Southwest Research Instituteexternal

$68K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support the design, analysis, and testing of systems and components used in propulsion and energy processes.

  • Provide mechanical and machine design support for applications including power generation, propulsion, and combustion, and develop or modify test rigs as needed.

  • Lead and coordinate technical work, troubleshoot tests and simulations, and guide the technical direction of other engineers and technicians.

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Who We Are:
The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of gas turbine combustion, air-breathing propulsion, industrial heat and power, and liquid propulsion. Our technologies are powering a cleaner future and advancing state-of-the-art propulsion systems 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, and launch vehicle components.
  • 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 & tolerancing (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 design, analytical, and experimental support to more than one project in a team environment.
  • Typical tasks include research, design, analysis, and simulation development. Use commercial engineering software such as ANSYS Workbench or APDL for design and analysis.
  • 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.
  • Direct 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.
  • Act as the primary technical lead for mechanical designs and guide technical direction of other engineers for projects/proposal efforts.
  • Be a problem solver that exercises creativity and independent judgement in determining approaches to solve a wide range of technical problems.

Requirements:
  • Requires a Bachelors, Masters or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related engineering degree. 1 yr experience required with MS degree, 0 yr experience required with PhD in relevant areas.
  • 2-5 years: Mechanical design experience applying tools like FEA to predict component/assembly stresses and evaluate fitness for service.
  • 2-5 years: Design, commissioning, and testing experience with high pressure and/or extreme temperature (cryogenic or combustion) process systems.
  • 2-5 years: Experience with industry standards, such as ASME Pressure Vessel Code, ASME B31 Piping Codes, machine assembly, maintenance, and repair.
  • MS or PhD degrees in engineering are preferred, but not required.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements:
Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Job Locations: San Antonio, Texas
For more information about this division, visit the Mechanical Engineering home page.
For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here .
For benefits information at all other locations, click here .
An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.

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