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Main Propulsion Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$54K - $66K/yr

S. Navy submarine experience in Main Propulsion, Auxiliary Systems, or Hull, Mechanical ... May conduct tests and record data to assist with engineering evaluation or analysis. What You Must ...

$54K - $66K/yr

S. Navy submarine experience in Main Propulsion, Auxiliary Systems, or Hull, Mechanical ... May conduct tests and record data to assist with engineering evaluation or analysis. What You Must ...

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Main Propulsion Assistant information

What is the difference between Main Propulsion Assistant vs Engine Room Rating?

AspectMain Propulsion AssistantEngine Room Rating
CredentialsSTCW certifications, maritime trainingSTCW certifications, maritime training
Work EnvironmentEngine room, ship propulsion systemsEngine room, ship propulsion systems
Industry UsageCommonly used in maritime and shipping industriesCommonly used in maritime and shipping industries
Job FocusAssisting with propulsion system maintenance and operationSupporting engine room operations and maintenance

The Main Propulsion Assistant and Engine Room Rating roles share similar credentials, work environments, and industry usage. The main difference lies in their specific job focus, with the Main Propulsion Assistant primarily assisting with propulsion systems, while the Engine Room Rating supports overall engine room operations. Both roles are essential for maritime vessel operation and safety.

What is a main propulsion assistant?

A Main Propulsion Assistant (MPA) is a senior engineering officer, typically found on naval vessels, who is responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and repair of the ship's main propulsion systems. These systems include engines, turbines, gears, and the associated auxiliary equipment that enable the ship to move. The MPA works closely with other engineering staff to ensure propulsion machinery operates safely and efficiently, coordinates maintenance schedules, and troubleshoots technical issues. The role is crucial for the ship's mobility and mission readiness, requiring technical expertise and strong leadership skills.

What are some common challenges faced by a main propulsion assistant on a ship?

Main Propulsion Assistants often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex mechanical and electrical issues under time constraints, adapting to rapidly changing operational demands, and maintaining propulsion systems during extended deployments. They must work closely with engineers and deck officers to ensure all propulsion machinery operates efficiently and safely. Effective communication and strong problem-solving skills are essential, as is the ability to perform routine maintenance and emergency repairs in high-pressure environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a main propulsion assistant?

To thrive as a Main Propulsion Assistant, you need a solid understanding of marine engineering principles, propulsion systems, and mechanical maintenance, typically supported by relevant maritime certifications or engineering degrees. Familiarity with shipboard engineering control systems, diagnostic tools, and safety management systems is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, leadership, and effective communication skills help coordinate teams and respond to emergencies efficiently. These competencies ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of a vessel's propulsion systems, which are critical for mission success and crew safety.
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What cities are hiring for Main Propulsion Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Main Propulsion Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Main Propulsion Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Main Propulsion Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Main Propulsion Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Propulsion Engineer I - Spacecraft Engine Team

Firefly Aerospace

Cedar Park, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Firefly Aerospace rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT FIREFLY AEROSPACE

Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company on a mission to reliably and repeatedly launch, land, and operate space systems from Earth to the Moon and beyond. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the first commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the first company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.

About the Role

The position of Propulsion Engineer within the Spectre Engine team at Firefly involves leveraging creativity, ingenuity, and experience to develop hypergol engines for our Blue Ghost program. Engineers tackle complex challenges throughout the project life cycle, from design and analysis to manufacturing, testing, and operational support. Collaborating closely with other product groups, such as structures, fluid systems, and avionics, Propulsion Engineers take ownership of projects and make critical decisions. Successful candidates will demonstrate a passion for solving challenging problems, the ability to synthesize information, and a determination to create leading-edge propulsion systems in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as Responsible Engineer for in-space propulsion hardware including main and attitude control engines, valves, and propellant tanks.
  • Develop new and innovative design concepts for propulsion integration and operations that reduce complexity and maximize reliability within budget
  • Assist in the development of manufacturing, integration, and test processes, including work instructions, test procedures, development testing, and initial build support
  • Act as the primary point of contact for design, analysis, and operations of spacecraft fluid systems
  • Perform flight operations as a primary operator for fluids and propulsion systems
  • Own and execute development, qualification, and acceptance testing of flight hardware
  • Execute design for manufacturability changes to enhance production efficiency and vehicle reliability
  • Identify system risks and conduct corresponding trade studies to ensure successful vehicle operation
  • Drive development of automation and test data analysis tools

Qualifications

Required

  • BS in Aerospace Engineering or related engineering discipline.
  • Strong engineering fundamentals in fluids, thermodynamics, and mechanics
  • Experience in Siemens NX or equivalent CAD program
  • Comprehension of design fundamentals including tolerancing, ASME Standards, ASTM, and GD&T
  • Ability to effectively work in a multi-discipline team and provide technical guidance and insight.

Desired Qualifications

  • Master’s Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering discipline.
  • 2+ years of progressive experience in related engineering discipline
  • Experience with storable liquid propulsion (NTO/MMH, Hydrazine)
  • Experience leading technical reviews (design & analysis) or investigations (risk, anomaly, or trade studies)
  • Hands-on experience with integrating test articles and sub-assemblies for test or production
  • Prior experience working with data acquisition systems and test instrumentation including pressure transducers, thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors, flow meters, load cells, and accelerometers
  • Experience with end to end ownership of technical projects from conception to delivery
  • Strong interpersonal and organizational skills

Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, educational reimbursement, short term disability, and flexible PTO options.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by 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.


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