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Lead Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DZYNE Technologies

Electric Propulsion Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $153K/yr

Electric Propulsion Engineer Location: Irvine, CA Work Arrangement: O n-site Position Summary We ... Lead the selection, sizing, and integration of electric propulsion components including ducted fans ...

Kokopelli Capital

Staff Propulsion Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$144K - $200K/yr

Lead the design and development of hypergolic propulsion systems and components, including ... Develop and review engineering documentation, including requirements, specifications, and design ...

Poseidon Aerospace

Propulsion Engineer

California, MO · On-site

As a Propulsion Engineer at Poseidon Aerospace, you will lead the propulsion team's development from initial assembly and bring-up to a fully calibrated, instrumented powerplant ready for flight.

Shield AI

Manager, Propulsion (Test) (R5089)

Seattle, WA

$190K - $290K/yr

You will lead a team of propulsion test engineers and technicians responsible for designing, building, and operating propulsion test stands and facilities supporting engine, fuel, oil, bleed air, and ...

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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 Sep 15, 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Lead Propulsion Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Lead Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,784 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Electric Propulsion Engineer

Houghton, MI • On-site

Orbion Space Technology
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Orbion Space Technologyexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Orbion is seeking an Electric Propulsion Engineer to assist in the development and test of new and existing satellite propulsion systems. The engineer will work with Orbion's world-class team of EP experts to design and prototype new or modified EP subsystems to improve existing product performance, as well as extend company offerings. The engineer will use their understanding of applicable plasma physics, mechanical and thermal engineering principles, and material properties, and system engineering practices to create and evaluate novel designs or troubleshoot issues. Additionally, the engineer will build and execute development and production tests and test systems for electric propulsion devices. These test systems will range from one-off development tests to fully-automated production tests.
Exact position, title, and salary will be commensurate with experience. Multiple positions may be available.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Create, maintain, and execute product and development roadmaps propulsion systems
  • Develop and manage system requirements
  • Lead and oversee technical investigations, delta-qualification efforts, continuous improvement activities, and new feature design efforts
  • Design and execute development tests
  • Delegate, lead, and manage junior engineers in similar tasks
  • Collect and report on collected test data
  • Perform other duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must meet definition of a US Person
  • Ph.D.. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics or a similar field with an Electric Propulsion focus or equivalent experience
  • 5 or more years' of experience with space hardware
  • Strong hands-on space hardware development experience
  • Excellent communication skills, technical depth, breadth, and passion to work effectively with cross functional (electrical, mechanical, software, system, test) production and development teams

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Capable team and/or project manager
  • 2 or more years' experience with flight hardware
  • Experience with requirements management
  • Experience with systems engineering and integration of electric propulsion systems
  • Experience with on-orbit operations of electric propulsion systems
  • Experience with flight qualification of propulsion systems

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Prolonged periods of standing and at times, sitting at a desk and working on a computer
  • Must be able to lift up to 40lbs at times
  • Manual dexterity to evaluate, install, and modify equipment

COMPENSATION/BENEFITS: Enjoy a very competitive starting salary based on your knowledge and experience. In addition to the excitement of making monumental changes to the aerospace industry, employees enjoy a flexible work schedule, company paid health insurance, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, paid time off (vacation, paid holidays, sick days), contribution matching retirement plan, and short-term disability coverage. The position is full time and located in Houghton, MI. Relocation assistance is available.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by state or local law.

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