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$42.5K

$123.8K

$180.5K

How much do lead propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead propulsion engineer in the United States is $123,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lead Propulsion Engineer, you need deep expertise in propulsion system design, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and significant industry experience. Familiarity with analysis software (such as ANSYS or MATLAB), CAD tools, and propulsion system testing protocols is essential, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) can be advantageous. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are crucial for guiding teams and collaborating across disciplines. These skills are vital to ensure safe, innovative, and efficient propulsion system development in complex aerospace projects.

How does a Lead Propulsion Engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during a spacecraft development project?

A Lead Propulsion Engineer frequently works alongside systems engineers, avionics specialists, structural engineers, and project managers to ensure the propulsion systems integrate seamlessly with the overall spacecraft design. This collaboration often involves regular cross-functional meetings, resolving integration challenges, and aligning propulsion system requirements with mission objectives. Effective communication and coordination are essential, as propulsion decisions can impact other subsystems and the mission timeline. This role often requires balancing technical leadership with facilitating teamwork across diverse engineering disciplines.

What does a Lead Propulsion Engineer do?

A Lead Propulsion Engineer oversees the design, development, and testing of propulsion systems used in vehicles such as rockets, aircraft, or spacecraft. They lead a team of engineers, coordinate project schedules, and ensure that propulsion systems meet performance, safety, and regulatory requirements. Their responsibilities often include analyzing test data, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating with other engineering teams to integrate propulsion with other subsystems. Lead Propulsion Engineers play a critical role in advancing propulsion technology and ensuring mission success.

What is the difference between Lead Propulsion Engineer vs Propulsion Engineer?

AspectLead Propulsion EngineerPropulsion Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering; often with leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, collaborates with cross-functional departmentsDesigns, analyzes, and tests propulsion systems under supervision
Industry UsageUsed in aerospace, defense, and space industries for senior technical leadershipEntry to mid-level roles in similar industries focusing on technical tasks

The main difference between a Lead Propulsion Engineer and a Propulsion Engineer lies in leadership responsibilities and project management. The Lead Propulsion Engineer oversees teams, manages project timelines, and coordinates with other departments, while the Propulsion Engineer primarily focuses on technical design and analysis tasks. Both roles require similar technical credentials, but the lead position involves additional leadership and strategic responsibilities.

More about Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs
What states have the most Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs are:
Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Deputy Lead Propulsion Engineer

Deputy Lead Propulsion Engineer

Stratolaunch

Mojave, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Sr-, Staff-, or Principal level Propulsion or Mechanical Engineer to support design, integration, testing, operations, and maintenance of the Talon-A hypersonic aircraft rocket propulsion systems as a Deputy Lead. An ideal candidate will have both mechanical and fluid subsystem component design experience, as well as leadership experience. This Propulsion Deputy Lead position has growth potential to further technical leadership.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Contribute to the development, build, test, and operations of propulsion flight and ground hardware
  • Perform structural, fluid, and thermal analysis of mechanical components and/or assemblies
  • Develop and document test requirements, plans, procedures, and reports
  • Create component and assembly drawings for flight and ground test hardware
  • Assist mechanics in integrating all components and assemblies onto the aircraft and/or ground systems
  • Test propulsion components and/or assemblies to prepare for integrated subsystem testing
  • Develop engineering tools, as needed, to complete tasking
  • Maintain inventory tracking of critical propulsion components
  • Manage supplier relations with key vendors
  • Technical ownership of clean rooms
  • Manage engineering release schedule in conjunction with shop planning
  • Track vehicle propulsion configuration
  • Review and release drawings, work instructions, analysis reports, etc.
  • Regular and comprehensive communication to the Propulsion Lead
  • Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems
  • Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity and fulfillment of commitments
QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of, and experience with, one or more of these disciplines: fluid subsystem design, mechanical design, component or assembly level mechanical or fluid testing, structural engineering, rocket testing, cryogenic fluid systems, electrical and/or instrumentation experience
  • Ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to explain rationale and/or resolve concerns
  • Experience with fluid-mechanical component design and stress analysis
  • Experience with 3D CAD modeling of parts and assemblies
  • Experience with propulsion ground testing
  • Experience with component-level or subsystem level test planning and execution
  • Experience troubleshooting complex systems
  • Ability to work on their own initiative
  • Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Technical leadership experience
  • Personnel management experience
  • Experience creating engineering drawings and work instructions
  • Experience with liquid oxygen systems
  • Liquid rocket engine testing experience
  • Experience with component-level or subsystem level test planning and execution
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance

Required Computer Skills:
  • Computer Aided Design tools
  • MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook)

Preferred Computer Skills:
  • Computer Aided Design tools - Solidworks
  • Programming - Matlab or Python, Simulink/Simscape
  • Familiarity with configuring data acquisition systems - Curtiss-Wright DAS Studio (preferred)
  • Familiarity with configuration management systems - Jira (preferred)
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Sr-level ($120,500-$158,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Staff-level ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Principal-level ($181,000-$237,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 20+ years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
  • Position based in Mojave, CA
  • Travel, as needed, to support the department; travel estimated to be <5%

#LI-onsite
#LI-AM1
Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.
Benefits and our location(s):
  • 9/80 schedule
  • Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
  • 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
  • Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.
Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You're within a half day's drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.
Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state's best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke's in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won't find anywhere else in the United States.
Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees' and applicants' time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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