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Lead Propulsion Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Medium

Lead Propulsion Component Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$138.55 - $187.45/hr

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 ...

New

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 ...

General Galactic

Propulsion Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Lead system safety assessments and hazard controls for fluid and propulsion systems Qualifications Successful applicants should have most of the following: * BS in mechanical engineering, aerospace ...

New

Mach Industries

Propulsion Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$120 - $190/hr

As a Propulsion Test Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the performance ... helping to lead the engineering team on requirements. * Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., NX ...

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Lead Propulsion Engineer information

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.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs in California?

For Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs in California are:

Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Propulsion Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Lead Propulsion Systems Engineer - Special Programs

Archer

San Jose, CA • Hybrid

$138K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

About the Role

Special Programs is Archer's rapid-prototyping, cross-functional engineering team supporting advanced and defense-focused development efforts. We operate as a small, empowered group capable of moving quickly across disciplines - from early technical assessment of new opportunities through hands-on design, analysis, and prototype development.

The Lead Special Programs Engineer - Propulsion Technologies & Integration brings deep propulsion engineering expertise as their organic core competency - including hybrid turbofan-electric and turbo-generator architectures - for prototype vehicles and systems.

What You'll Do

  • Lead propulsion system design and analysis for prototype vehicles, including engine/motor sizing, performance modeling, BSFC and fuel-burn analysis, and propulsion-airframe integration
  • Support rapid prototyping efforts end-to-end, from concept sizing through detailed design, bench/ground test, and flight test support
  • Own the propulsion discipline within Special Programs - setting technical approach, standards, and analysis methods used across the program's propulsion work
  • Conduct technical feasibility assessments of new opportunities - evaluating whether emerging concepts, RFPs, or mission requirements are viable within your focus area and what approach they would require
  • Serve as a cross-functional technical contributor across Special Programs efforts outside your core focus area when program needs require it
  • Collaborate with program leads, other Special Programs engineers, and broader Archer engineering teams to align technical approaches with program timelines and constraints
  • Produce technical documentation, trade studies, and analysis packages supporting both design maturity reviews and opportunity/capture decisions
  • Represent Special Programs work in your focus area in internal reviews and, as needed, in discussions with government stakeholders

What You'll Need

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Propulsion Engineering (advanced degree a plus)
  • Demonstrated experience in aircraft propulsion design and analysis, including performance modeling and propulsion-airframe integration
  • Familiarity with hybrid-electric or turbo-generator propulsion architectures a plus
  • Demonstrated ability to work across the full development lifecycle - concept through prototype - in a fast-paced, resource-constrained environment
  • Experience or strong aptitude for evaluating technical feasibility of early-stage concepts, not just executing against defined requirements
  • Comfort operating as a generalist when needed - willingness and ability to contribute outside your core focus area in support of program needs
  • Ability to work independently with significant technical ownership and no direct-report support structure
  • 8-12 years of relevant engineering experience (or equivalent demonstrated experience in rapid-prototyping / advanced-programs environments)
  • Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, national, lawful permanent resident, asylee, or refugee), as defined by ITAR/EAR
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance

What Makes This Role Different

This isn't a seat on Archer's core propulsion team. Special Programs engineers are chosen for deep discipline expertise and the versatility to support wherever a program needs it - from early opportunity evaluation to hands-on prototype work across disciplines. You'll have significant technical ownership and autonomy, working in a small team built to move fast on some of Archer's most forward-looking defense efforts.

At Archer, we aim to attract, retain, and motivate talent with the skills and leadership needed to grow our business. We drive a pay-for-performance culture and reward performance that supports the Company's strategy. For this position, we are targeting a base pay range of $138,200 - $190,100. Actual compensation offered will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.            

Archer is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to job applicants with physical or mental disabilities, and those with sincerely held religious beliefs. Applicants who may require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should provide their name and contact information to Archer's People Team at people@archer.com. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

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