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Full Time Rocket Propulsion information

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do full time rocket propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time rocket propulsion in the United States is $102,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Full Time Rocket Propulsion vs Full Time Aerospace Engineer?

AspectFull Time Rocket PropulsionFull Time Aerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Propulsion Engineering; certifications in propulsion systemsBachelor's or higher in Aerospace Engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, testing facilities, launch sitesDesign offices, testing labs, manufacturing plants
Industry UsagePrimarily in space agencies, defense, and private space companiesCommercial and military aerospace sectors, including aircraft and spacecraft

Full Time Rocket Propulsion focuses specifically on designing, testing, and developing propulsion systems for rockets, often requiring specialized knowledge in propulsion technologies. Full Time Aerospace Engineer has a broader scope, working on aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. While both roles share similar credentials and work environments, Rocket Propulsion specialists concentrate on propulsion systems, whereas Aerospace Engineers work on overall vehicle design and systems integration.

What does a Full Time Rocket Propulsion Engineer do?

A Full Time Rocket Propulsion Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining rocket engines and propulsion systems. They work on creating efficient and reliable engines that propel spacecraft, missiles, or launch vehicles. Their duties often include analyzing performance data, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with other engineers to ensure safety and mission success. This role typically requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics, as well as experience with advanced materials and testing procedures.

What are some typical challenges faced in a full-time rocket propulsion role, and how can new team members effectively overcome them?

Professionals in full-time rocket propulsion roles often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex engine anomalies, meeting tight project deadlines, and staying up-to-date with rapid technological advancements. New team members can effectively overcome these challenges by actively collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, seeking mentorship from experienced engineers, and dedicating time to continuous learning. Being proactive in communication and problem-solving, as well as embracing a culture of safety and precision, are also crucial for success in this high-stakes field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rocket Propulsion Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rocket Propulsion Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, with strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and propulsion systems, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in simulation software (such as ANSYS, MATLAB, or COMSOL), CAD tools, and familiarity with industry standards and certifications (like ITAR compliance) are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to designing, testing, and optimizing reliable propulsion systems that meet stringent safety and performance standards.
More about Full Time Rocket Propulsion jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Rocket Propulsion jobs? The most popular types of Rocket Propulsion jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Rocket Propulsion jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Rocket Propulsion jobs are:
Full Time Rocket Propulsion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Rocket Propulsion job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,825 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Manager, Propulsion Test Engineering

Impulse Space

Mojave, CA • On-site

$154K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Manager, Propulsion Test Engineering
Department: Assembly, Integration & Test
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Mojave
Compensation: $154,000 - $185,000 / year
Description
As a Manager, Propulsion Test Engineering at Impulse, you will be responsible for testing all aspects of development and production-level propulsion hardware. This team ensures that our propulsion systems meet design intent and performance requirements through rigorous testing, analysis, and validation.
As Manager, you will oversee a team of engineers ranging in experience from entry-level to principal, guiding their technical execution, professional development, and collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams. You'll own the team's priorities, performance, and culture-driving high reliability, innovation, and speed in our testing operations.
Responsibilities
  • Lead, mentor, and grow a multidisciplinary team of engineers, from entry level to principal
  • Plan and oversee test operations across multiple test sites, develop operator training, and
  • Manage test schedules, resources, and priorities to meet program milestones
  • Coordinate with test equipment, infrastructure, and data systems teams to support current and future testing needs and ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality test operations
  • Drive root cause investigations, corrective actions, and continuous improvement in test processes and reliability
  • Resolve technical issues with innovative and resourceful solutions
  • Establish and maintain high technical and professional standards
  • Champion a culture of safety, technical rigor, and operational excellence

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or a related field
  • 7+ years of demonstrated experience in development or production test engineering
  • Demonstrated success building and developing high-performing engineering teams
  • Demonstrated understanding of fluid systems, instrumentation, data acquisition, and control systems
  • Proven ability to manage complex test operations safely and effectively

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Master's degree in an engineering discipline or management field
  • 9+ years experience in rocket, propulsion, or aerospace test engineering
  • Familiarity with test automation, data systems, and safety management

Additional Information
  • This role is based on-site at our Mojave Test facility at the Mojave Air & Space Port
  • Occasional travel to partner locations may be required
  • Applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents due to export control regulations

Additional Information:
Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
Impulse Space's spacecraft manufacturing business is subject to U.S. export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This position requires applicants to be either U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent U.S. resident (green card holder), an individual granted asylum in the U.S., or an individual admitted in U.S. refugee status) or persons eligible to obtain an export license from the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, or other applicable U.S. government agencies. Learn more about the ITAR here.
Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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