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Lead Propulsion Engineer Jobs (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 ...

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 ...

Lockheed Martin

Propulsion Engineer

Littleton, CO · On-site

Other duties may include • Subsystem Integration • Lead the conceptual development ... Propulsion Engineering fundamentals including structures, mechanisms, propulsion systems and ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Engineer II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Lead investigations and resolution of critical technical issues What It Takes * Bachelor's, Master ... engineering experience developing propulsion systems and components * Experience designing ...

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All JobsLead Propulsion Engineer Jobs

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 Jun 22, 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.

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 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.
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
Infographic showing various Lead Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,784 per year, or $59.5 per hour.
Lead Propulsion Component Engineer

Lead Propulsion Component Engineer

Hermeus

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$138K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.
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 thermal and pressure environments. This is a player-coach role: you will directly design and deliver hardware while leading a small team of engineers. You will own components from clean-sheet design through test, qualification, and flight, and your hardware will move quickly from concept to real-world operation.
Responsibilities
  • Own propulsion components (e.g., high-pressure valves, actuation systems, and fluid control hardware) from concept through flight qualification
  • Design for extreme environments including high temperature, pressure, and dynamic loading
  • Drive trade studies across performance, manufacturability, reliability, and testability
  • Execute clean-sheet design, analysis, and integration of propulsion hardware
  • Lead development through rapid build-test-iterate cycles
  • Support and troubleshoot hardware during ground and flight test campaigns
  • Lead and mentor a team of 2-5 engineers, setting technical direction and execution priorities
  • Review designs, guide engineering decisions, and ensure high technical standards
  • Act as the Responsible Engineer for critical flight hardware
  • Work closely with propulsion, structures, and vehicle teams to integrate components into engine and vehicle systems
  • Define system requirements, interfaces, and operational limits
  • Drive transition from prototype to repeatable, production-ready hardware
  • Develop assembly, test, and acceptance strategies for reliable delivery

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
  • 7+ years of experience developing mechanical or propulsion hardware
  • Demonstrated experience owning hardware from concept through test or production
  • Strong fundamentals in fluids, thermodynamics, mechanics, and materials
  • Hands-on experience with design, build, and integration of mechanical systems

Preferred Skills and Qualifications
  • Experience with propulsion systems, high-pressure fluid systems, or aerospace mechanisms
  • Experience designing components such as valves, actuators, turbomachinery-adjacent hardware, or fluid control systems
  • Familiarity with high-temperature materials and sealing strategies
  • Strong knowledge of GD&T, tolerance stack-up, and precision assemblies
  • Experience with rapid development environments (startup or flight hardware programs)
  • Proficiency with CAD tools (NX preferred) and analysis tools (ANSYS or similar)
  • Experience supporting hardware through test campaigns and resolving real-world failures

Additional Requirements
  • Willingness to work hands-on in build, integration, and test environments
  • Ability to support extended hours during critical test and flight operations
  • Willingness to travel to test sites as needed
  • Must be eligible to access export-controlled information

$138,550 - $187,450 a year
The salary information provided is a general guideline only. Hermeus takes various factors into account, including, but not limited to, the position's scope and responsibilities, the candidate's professional background, education and training, essential skills, and market and business considerations, when presenting a job offer.
Salary is only one part of our total compensation and benefits package. Hermeus offers competitive salary and equity, unlimited PTO policy, paid parental leave, potential for year-end bonuses, and more!
100% employer-paid health care
401k & Retirement Plans
Unlimited PTO
Weekly Paid Office Lunches
End of Year Bonuses
Fully stocked breakrooms
Stock Options
Paid Parental Leave
U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS
The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by22 C.F.R. § 120.62or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to 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.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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