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Entry Level Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Virginia

High-Speed Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

Leidos' Defense Systems Advanced Development Organization is seeking an entry-level to early career ... Coursework or project experience in highspeed dynamics, aerothermodynamics, propulsion ...

Leidos' Defense Systems Advanced Development Organization is seeking an entry-level to early career ... Coursework or project experience in highspeed dynamics, aerothermodynamics, propulsion ...

Entry Level Propulsion Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$40.2K

$85.6K

$141.3K

How much do entry level propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level propulsion engineer in Virginia is $85,640.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $102,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level propulsion engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Propulsion Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, strong analytical skills, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, propulsion modeling tools, and standard testing equipment is commonly required, and internships or co-op experience provide a practical advantage. Attention to detail, effective teamwork, and strong communication will set you apart when collaborating on complex engineering projects. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and innovation necessary in developing and testing advanced propulsion systems.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an entry level propulsion engineer?

As an Entry Level Propulsion Engineer, your daily responsibilities often include supporting the design, analysis, and testing of propulsion components such as engines, thrusters, or fuel systems. You may assist with data collection during engine tests, perform calculations or simulations, and collaborate with senior engineers to troubleshoot performance issues. Expect to spend time reviewing technical drawings, documenting findings, and participating in team meetings to discuss ongoing projects. This role offers hands-on experience with propulsion technologies and provides a strong foundation for career advancement in the aerospace or automotive sectors.

How to get into entry level propulsion engineering?

To enter an entry-level propulsion engineering role, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in CAD software and propulsion systems, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects. Strong analytical, problem-solving skills and familiarity with industry tools are also beneficial.

What is an entry level propulsion engineer?

An Entry Level Propulsion Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, analysis, testing, and development of propulsion systems for aircraft, spacecraft, or other vehicles. They work with senior engineers to perform calculations, create models, and analyze performance data to ensure efficient and reliable propulsion. Typical tasks include researching new technologies, troubleshooting issues, and validating system performance through simulations and experiments. This role requires a solid foundation in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and mechanical or aerospace engineering principles. It is an excellent starting point for engineers looking to specialize in propulsion and gain hands-on experience in the aerospace or automotive industries.

How much do entry level propulsion engineers get paid?

Entry-level propulsion engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on location, education, and industry. Starting salaries may increase with relevant internships, certifications, or specialized skills in propulsion systems, thermodynamics, or CAD tools.
What are the most commonly searched types of Propulsion Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Propulsion Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Propulsion Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Propulsion Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Propulsion Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,640 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

High-Speed Systems Engineer

Leidos

Reston, VA • On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 481 rated business services


Job description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainably. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

Your greatest work is ahead!

Leidos' Defense Systems Advanced Development Organization is seeking an entry-level to early career systems engineer specializing in Value-Driven Design (VDD), Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), and parametric lifecycle modeling to support a classified, highspeed system portfolio. The successful candidate will apply digital engineering frameworks to capture stakeholder requirements and translate mission-critical engineering parameters into structured architecture baselines that feed decisionquality trade studies.

If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!

Leidos Defense Systems Sector provides a diverse portfolio of systems, solutions, and services covering land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace for customers worldwide. Solutions for Defense include enterprise and mission IT, large-scale intelligence systems, command and control, geospatial and data analytics, cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is solving the world's toughest security challenges for customers with "can't fail" missions. To explore and learn more, click here!

Are you ready to make an impact? Share your resume with us today!

Primary Responsibilities.

  • Draft and maintain EARSformatted requirement statements and attributes; produce requirementtoverification traceability and test artifacts (procedures, reports).
  • Create and maintain SysML MBSE artifacts including Logical, Physical, and Allocative architecture views; document allocations of performance, cost, reliability, and verification to physical elements.
  • Build and maintain parametric manufacturing and O&S models (Excel/Python/MATLAB) to quantify lifecycle impacts of design alternatives and support sensitivity analysis.
  • Produce trade studies, decision briefs, and internal white papers that quantify warfighter utility and lifecycle cost/benefit.
  • Support integration, verification planning, and mapping of verification activities to requirements; participate in test planning and reporting.
  • Operate effectively in a matrixed environment; transition between programs as required.
  • Work full time onsite in a controlled area; comply with SCIF and program security procedures; travel approximately one week per quarter.

Basic Qualifications.

  • BS in Systems, Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Computer Engineering, Physics, or related STEM discipline from an ABETaccredited institution (or equivalent). Dual majors and aerospace backgrounds encouraged.
  • Entry-level to early career. Candidates with 0+ years of experience are appropriate; hiring band flexible for recent graduates with strong artifacts.
  • U.S. Citizen eligible for TopSecret clearance; willing to accept TS sponsorship at hire. (Position requires ability to obtain and maintain required clearance.)
  • Familiarity with SysML concepts and MBSE principles; basic scripting or modeling in Python or MATLAB; demonstrated technical writing ability.
  • Able to perform in a collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environment and communicate effectively.
  • Travel: 10-20% travel, remainder will be onsite.

Preferred Qualifications.

  • Coursework or project experience in highspeed dynamics, aerothermodynamics, propulsion, instrumentation, or related aerospace topics.
  • Exposure to Cameo/MagicDraw, DOORS, SIMIO, or other MBSE and requirements tools.
  • Experience with parametric cost modeling, Monte Carlo or sensitivity analysis.
  • ASEP/INCOSE or OMG SysML training (funded/reimbursed by employer is acceptable).
  • Prior internship or capstone work producing requirements, MBSE views, or lifecycle models.
  • Familiarity with DoD acquisition lifecycle and program processes.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:July 23, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $57,850.00 - $104,575.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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