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Main Propulsion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TMMG

(C) Marine Gas Turbine Inspector (MGTI)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $95K/yr

... main propulsion as Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Officer, Chief Engineer, or equivalent responsible for overall propulsion plant operations and associated control and ...

Bowhead

Chief Engineer

Panama City, FL

Operate and maintain the 120' Missile Retriever main engines and propulsion equipment in direct support of the 82 ATRS missions which range from harbor operations to open ocean operations within ...

Thales

A Joint Venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), Thales Alenia Space is a global space manufacturer delivering, for more than 40 years, high-tech solutions for telecommunications, navigation ...

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do main propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for main propulsion in the United States is $102,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical collaboration points between Main Propulsion engineers and other shipboard departments during a vessel's operation?

Main Propulsion engineers routinely collaborate with departments such as Electrical, Navigation, and Deck to ensure the vessel’s propulsion systems operate efficiently and safely. They coordinate with the Electrical team to troubleshoot control systems, work with Navigation to align propulsion needs with voyage plans, and support Deck operations during maneuvers or docking. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as propulsion system performance directly impacts the ship’s schedule, fuel efficiency, and overall safety.

What are Main Propulsion jobs?

Main Propulsion jobs refer to roles responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the primary engines and related systems that propel ships, submarines, or spacecraft. Individuals in these positions ensure that main engines, propulsion shafts, fuel systems, and control mechanisms function safely and efficiently. These roles are crucial in maritime and aerospace industries, often requiring technical expertise and strict adherence to safety protocols. Main Propulsion personnel may work on installation, troubleshooting, and routine inspections to keep propulsion systems in optimal condition.

What is the difference between Main Propulsion vs Engine Room Technician?

AspectMain PropulsionEngine Room Technician
Required CredentialsCertifications in marine engineering, propulsion systemsMarine engineering certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentEngine room, propulsion systems, machinery spacesEngine room, machinery maintenance areas
Employer & Industry UsageShip operators, maritime industry, cruise linesShip operators, maritime industry, cargo ships
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Main Propulsion personnel focus on the operation and maintenance of the ship's propulsion systems, including engines and propellers. Engine Room Technicians handle routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs of engine room machinery. While both roles work closely in the engine room, Main Propulsion is more specialized in propulsion systems, whereas Engine Room Technicians cover broader engine room equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Main Propulsion, and why are they important?

To thrive in Main Propulsion, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical engineering principles, along with relevant technical training or certifications such as a marine engineering degree or equivalent. Familiarity with propulsion control systems, engine diagnostics tools, and maintenance management software is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of propulsion systems, which is critical for vessel performance and safety.
More about Main Propulsion jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Main Propulsion jobs? The most popular types of Main Propulsion jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Main Propulsion jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Main Propulsion jobs are:
Main Propulsion jobs near you
Gas Turbine Main Propulsion & Control Systems Subject Matter Expert (GTMP&C SME)

Gas Turbine Main Propulsion & Control Systems Subject Matter Expert (GTMP&C SME)

Prevailance

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description:

This position is contingent upon contract award

The Gas Turbine Main Propulsion & Control Systems Subject Matter Expert (GTMP&C SME) provides technical leadership, quality assurance oversight, and engineering support for Navy gas turbine propulsion systems and associated auxiliary equipment aboard surface warships and military auxiliary vessels. This position serves as a subject matter expert responsible for ensuring propulsion plant operational readiness, maintenance compliance, and adherence to Navy quality assurance standards and engineering requirements.


The GTMP&C SME supports propulsion plant operations, maintenance planning, quality assurance implementation, and technical assessments while coordinating with shipboard personnel, maintenance activities, and government representatives to ensure safe, reliable, and mission-ready engineering operations.


Key Responsibilities

  • Provide technical leadership and oversight for gas turbine propulsion plant operations, maintenance execution, and quality assurance programs.
  • Serve as subject matter expert for gas turbine main propulsion systems, gas turbine generators, associated control systems, and auxiliary engineering equipment.
  • Monitor and evaluate maintenance activities to ensure compliance with current Navy quality assurance requirements, maintenance procedures, and engineering standards.
  • Conduct technical reviews, maintenance evaluations, and quality assurance assessments for propulsion system maintenance and operational activities.
  • Support planning, execution, and oversight of organizational-level and depot-level maintenance involving gas turbine propulsion systems.
  • Review maintenance documentation, work packages, inspection reports, and corrective action records for technical accuracy and procedural compliance.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineering personnel, maintenance staff, and quality assurance representatives.
  • Analyze propulsion plant operational data, maintenance trends, and quality metrics to identify improvement opportunities and support mission readiness.
  • Coordinate with ship’s force personnel, maintenance organizations, and government representatives to resolve technical and quality-related issues.
  • Support development and implementation of engineering procedures, maintenance strategies, quality assurance processes, and readiness initiatives.
  • Ensure compliance with Navy engineering, operational, maintenance, safety, and quality assurance requirements.
  • Prepare technical reports, engineering assessments, quality assurance evaluations, and readiness status updates for leadership review.
Requirements:

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum of twenty (20) years of supervisory-level watchstanding experience aboard warships or military auxiliary vessels with gas turbine propulsion systems, including service as:
    • Engineering Officer, of the Watch (EOOW),
    • Chief Engineer, or
    • Equivalent engineering leadership positions responsible for overall propulsion plant operations and associated control and auxiliary systems.
  • Direct operational and maintenance experience within the last five (5) years involving:
    • Gas turbine main propulsion systems,
    • Gas turbine generators,
    • Associated control systems, and
    • Auxiliary systems currently utilized by the U.S. Navy.
  • Demonstrated experience equivalent to a Navy Quality Assurance Officer (QAO).
  • Thorough knowledge of current Navy quality assurance procedures, maintenance requirements, engineering standards, and inspection processes.
  • Extensive knowledge of gas turbine propulsion plant operations, engineering systems, and Navy maintenance practices.
  • Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and technical problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to effectively interface with senior military leadership, civilian personnel, maintenance organizations, and technical stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience supporting Navy fleet readiness, modernization, maintenance, or lifecycle sustainment programs.
  • Experience supporting shipyard maintenance, depot-level engineering activities, or waterfront operations.
  • Familiarity with Navy maintenance databases, engineering documentation systems, and quality assurance tracking tools.
  • Experience supporting engineering assessments, inspections, or maintenance program audits.
  • Bachelor’s degree or associate degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Naval Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical discipline.

Education Requirements

  • Equivalent Navy engineering training, qualifications, certifications, and operational experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.

Work Environment

  • Work may be performed in office environments, shipboard locations, waterfront operations areas, maintenance facilities, or shipyards.
  • Position may require travel to fleet concentration areas, operational commands, maintenance facilities, and shipboard locations in support of inspections, maintenance activities, and operational readiness efforts.

Security Clearance

  • Active DoD security clearance (Secret) required.