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Combustion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Role Overview The Sr. Combustion Engineer helps pioneer our rocket-inspired, high-pressure combustion systems for carbon-neutral and carbon-negative power cycles. In this role, you'll lead end-to-end ...

NC

$60K - $90K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Combustion Engineer or Scientist to join our expanding technical team. This role is ideal for a driven professional with strong academic training in Mechanical ...

Lead Combustion Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Our team includes aerospace engineers, combustion experts, and systems thinkers with a shared goal: to build technology worthy of the world we want to live in. While many of us began our journeys ...

NC · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Combustion Engineer or Scientist to join our expanding technical team. This role is ideal for a driven professional with strong academic training in Mechanical ...

Lead Combustion Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Our team includes aerospace engineers, combustion experts, and systems thinkers with a shared goal: to build technology worthy of the world we want to live in. While many of us began our journeys ...

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Combustion information

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$11K

$88.2K

$131K

How much do combustion jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for combustion in the United States is $88,214.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $90,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Combustion position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Combustion Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or chemical engineering, deep knowledge of thermodynamics and combustion processes, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation software like ANSYS Fluent, MATLAB, and proficiency in combustion analysis tools are typically required, along with certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork skills enable success in cross-functional project environments. These competencies are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and innovative solutions for combustion systems in industries like power generation and automotive engineering.

What are some typical challenges combustion engineers face in their daily work?

Combustion engineers often encounter challenges such as optimizing fuel efficiency while minimizing emissions, troubleshooting complex system malfunctions, and staying up to date with evolving environmental regulations. They may need to balance theoretical designs with real-world constraints in manufacturing and operational settings. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams, they are often involved in root-cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance performance and safety. Successfully navigating these challenges helps drive innovation and effectiveness in combustion-related projects.

What is a Combustion job?

A Combustion job typically involves working with combustion systems, such as engines, furnaces, boilers, or turbines, to ensure efficient fuel burning and emissions control. Professionals in this field may design, test, maintain, and troubleshoot combustion equipment in industries like automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing. They often analyze fuel performance, optimize combustion processes, and ensure compliance with environmental standards.

More about Combustion jobs
What cities are hiring for Combustion jobs? Cities with the most Combustion job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Combustion jobs? The most popular types of Combustion jobs are:
What states have the most Combustion jobs? States with the most job openings for Combustion jobs include:
Infographic showing various Combustion job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,214 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Sr. Combustion Engineer

Sr. Combustion Engineer

Arbor Energy

El Segundo, CA

$150K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Role Overview
The Sr. Combustion Engineer helps pioneer our rocket-inspired, high-pressure combustion systems for carbon-neutral and carbon-negative power cycles.  In this role, you'll lead end-to-end development of cutting-edge, high-efficiency combustion devices in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.  You will partner closely with test engineers, analysts, and designers to push boundaries-delivering breakthrough performance that powers a sustainable future. 
From conceptual design and modeling to hands-on testing and rapid iteration, you'll own the full hardware lifecycle. 
 
This is an onsite opportunity in our El Segundo, CA office. 
Responsibilities
  • Lead the clean-sheet design and analysis of advanced oxy-fuel combustion systems, delivering breakthrough performance from concept to reality
  • Plan, execute, and analyze high-pressure and temperature test campaigns, delivering actionable insights to accelerate progress
  • Guide system configuration and drive performance optimization for maximum efficiency and reliability
  • Own rapid hardware development cycles-from manufacturing and assembly through testing and iterative improvements
  • Leverage additive manufacturing and state-of-the-art simulation tools to accelerate innovation and reduce development timelines
  • Champion continuous improvement by proposing and implementing design upgrades
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical engineering, or related field
  • 7+ years of experience in combustion system design, analysis, and testing
  • Comprehensive understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer
  • Hands-on experience with high-temperature and pressure equipment
  • Demonstrated ability to own the product lifecycle from conceptual design to validation
  • Curious, inventive, and entrepreneurial mindset comfortable driving progress 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Chemical engineering
  • Hands-on experience with hot-fire testing and high-pressure systems in rocket or gas turbine environments
  • Programming or scripting skills for data reduction and automation (Python, MATLAB, etc.)
  • Background in startup environments or agile hardware development cycles
Benefits & Compensation
  • Pre-IPO stock options
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (Arbor covers 90% for employees)
  • Basic life insurance fully covered
  • Health savings account (HSA) with matching
  • Flexible savings account (FSA)
  • Unlimited PTO 
  • 12+ company holidays, including Earth Day! 
  • 401(k)
  • Commuter benefits
  • Annual learning and development stipend
  • And more!
Base Pay: $150,000 - $175,000 USD/year. The salary is subject to the applicant's skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location.