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Lead Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TRC Talent Solutions

Propulsion Engineer

Sandy Springs, GA · On-site +1

$69.75 - $75/hr

This Propulsion Engineer will combine deep expertise in propulsion and thermal systems with hands ... Leadership experience or desire to lead technical teams. TRC Talent Solutions is proud to be an ...

AVTC Group

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

Propulsion Engineer US Citizen / Permanent Resident Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Onsite in ... Lead the Gateway Refueling Working Group, involving planning agenda topics related to current, and ...

Hermeus

Lead Propulsion Component Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$138K - $187K/yr

As a Lead Propulsion Component Engineer you will own the development of flight-critical propulsion components-including valves, actuators, and high-performance mechanical systems operating in extreme ...

Blue Origin

Propulsion Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$121K - $169K/yr

As a Propulsion Engineer, you will be a key member of our dynamic team, dedicated to the design ... Lead the design and analysis of on-orbit propulsion systems, with a focus on reaction control ...

Blue Origin

Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$121K - $169K/yr

As a Propulsion Engineer, you will be a key member of our dynamic team, dedicated to the design ... Lead the design and analysis of on-orbit propulsion systems, with a focus on reaction control ...

Front Door Defense

WI · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Propulsion Manufacturing Engineer II Lead propulsion products from development into full production at Briggs, Texas. Location: Texas, United States Job Tags: Hardware About The Role Firefly ...

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Lead Propulsion Engineer information

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$42.5K

$123.8K

$180.5K

How much do lead propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 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 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.

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 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.

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.

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What states have the most Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs?

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Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,784 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Chief Propulsion Engineer

Applied Technology Solutions, Inc

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Chief Propulsion Engineer
The Chief Propulsion Engineer serves as the company's technical authority for all propulsion systems across programs. This individual defines propulsion strategy, leads propulsion architecture trades, oversees design and development activities, and mentors a growing propulsion engineering organization. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise with demonstrated experience transitioning propulsion technologies from concept through flight qualification and production. This role partners closely with Systems Engineering, Airframe, Guidance & Control, Manufacturing, Program Management, Business Development, and executive leadership to develop affordable, producible, high-performance propulsion solutions.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the company's technical authority for propulsion systems.
  • Lead propulsion architecture selection and technology roadmaps.
  • Develop solid rocket motor, ramjet, ducted rocket, or integrated rocket-ramjet propulsion concepts.
  • Lead propulsion system performance analysis including internal ballistics, combustion, nozzle performance, thermal management, structural loads, and propellant performance.
  • Establish propulsion requirements and verification plans.
  • Lead SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, FRR, and production readiness reviews.
  • Support system-level trade studies involving range, speed, maneuverability, cost, manufacturability, and producibility.
  • Oversee propulsion supplier technical management and source selection.
  • Interface with DoD customers, AFRL, DARPA, Navy, Air Force, Army, and prime contractors.
  • Provide technical leadership during proposal development and customer presentations.
  • Mentor propulsion engineers and establish engineering standards.
  • Support failure investigations and corrective actions.
  • Ensure compliance with military standards and qualification requirements.
  • Work with manufacturing to transition designs into production.

Required Qualifications (Education, Certifications, Experience):
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
  • Master's degree preferred; Ph.D. highly desirable.
  • 15+ years of propulsion engineering experience.
  • Experience developing missile propulsion systems.
  • Expertise in solid rocket motors, ramjets, ducted rockets, air-breathing propulsion, or hypersonic propulsion.
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Strong understanding of combustion, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, structural mechanics, and propellant chemistry.
  • Experience with propulsion qualification testing and flight testing.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Integrated rocket-ramjet experience.
  • Hypersonic weapon development.
  • Insensitive munitions requirements.
  • Energetic materials expertise.
  • CFD and FEA experience.
  • MBSE familiarity.
  • DoD acquisition program experience.
  • Technical publications or patents.

Direct technical experience in the following areas:
  • Rocket motor sizing and optimization.
  • Grain design.
  • Propellant formulation.
  • Combustion instability.
  • Ignition systems.
  • Nozzle design.
  • Thrust vector control.
  • Thermal protection systems.
  • High-temperature materials.
  • Mission performance analysis.

Additional Information:
  • This position will require the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required depending on program needs.
  • Occasional domestic travel may be required to support testing, supplier visits, and customer meetings.

Note:
ATS is a drug-free workplace. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited. All candidates who receive conditional offers of employment are subject to drug testing. In addition, ATS is an E-Verify employer.
Export Control Regulations:
Applicants for employment at ATS must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Applied Technology Solutions, Inc. is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Applicants who need a reasonable accommodation during the hiring process are encouraged to contact us.

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