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Propellant Chemistry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

X-Bow Systems

Sr. Chemist - Energetics

Luling, TX · On-site

Demonstrate technical acumen across a wide range of skills, including analytical chemistry, energetic molecule characteristics, heritage and advanced propellant improvement approaches, problem ...

X-Bow Systems

Sr. Chemist - Energetics

Luling, TX · On-site

Demonstrate technical acumen across a wide range of skills, including analytical chemistry, energetic molecule characteristics, heritage and advanced propellant improvement approaches, problem ...

Anduril Industries

Senior Scientist

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$90K - $123K/yr

Execute production rocket motor contracts as the program propellant chemist. * Act as the principal investigator on at least one internal research and development effort. * Provide technical guidance ...

Xbow

Sr. Chemist - Energetics

Luling, TX

Demonstrate technical acumen across a wide range of skills, including analytical chemistry, energetic molecule characteristics, heritage and advanced propellant improvement approaches, problem ...

Gravitics, Inc

Senior PropulsionEngineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

Familiarity with combustion, propellant chemistry, or reaction control system (RCS) design * Experience with CFD, thermal fluid system modeling, and/or combustion modeling tools (e.g., Thermal ...

Gravitics, Inc

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Seattle, WA

$135K - $160K/yr

Familiarity with combustion, propellant chemistry, or reaction control system (RCS) design * Experience with CFD, thermal fluid system modeling, and/or combustion modeling tools (e.g., Thermal ...

ERC, Inc.

Chemist

Redstone Arsenal, AL · On-site

Perform propellant mixing, casting, and loading. * Perform propellant performance testing and ... Chemistry, Biology, Aerospace or Chemical Engineering, etc.). * 4 or more years of experience ...

ERC Inc.

Chemist

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Perform propellant mixing, casting, and loading. Perform propellant performance testing and ... Bachelors' of Science Degree in relevant discipline required (i.e Chemistry, Biology, Aerospace or ...

Anduril Industries

Senior Scientist

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$129K - $191K/yr

Execute production rocket motor contracts as the program propellant chemist. * Act as the principal investigator on at least one internal research and development effort. * Provide technical guidance ...

Anduril Industries

Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Experience in one of the following areas; thermal analysis, structures, propellant chemistry. * Knowledge of reliability prediction techniques and failure mode analysis. * Experience with test ...

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All JobsPropellant Chemistry Jobs

Propellant Chemistry information

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$13

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$32

How much do propellant chemistry jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for propellant chemistry in the United States is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Propellant Chemist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Propellant Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry, particularly in energetic materials, often supported by a degree in chemistry or chemical engineering. Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols, analytical instruments (such as calorimeters and chromatographs), and relevant certifications like HAZMAT training are typical requirements. Strong analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial to ensure the safe development, testing, and optimization of propellants for aerospace, defense, and industrial applications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in propellant chemistry, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in propellant chemistry often encounter challenges related to handling hazardous materials, ensuring precise formulation, and maintaining strict safety and environmental compliance. These challenges require rigorous attention to detail, constant updating of safety protocols, and close collaboration with safety engineers and regulatory bodies. Building expertise in analytical techniques and staying informed about advancements in green propellant technologies can help address these issues and foster innovation in the field.

What is the difference between Propellant Chemistry vs Rocket Propulsion Engineer?

AspectPropellant ChemistryRocket Propulsion Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesDesign labs, testing facilities, launch sites
Industry UsageDeveloping and testing propellants and fuelsDesigning and optimizing propulsion systems

Propellant Chemistry focuses on developing and testing rocket fuels and propellants, primarily working in labs. Rocket Propulsion Engineers design and improve propulsion systems used in rockets, often working in testing and launch environments. While both roles are essential in aerospace, Propellant Chemists specialize in chemical formulations, whereas Rocket Propulsion Engineers focus on system integration and performance.

What is propellant chemistry?

Propellant chemistry is the scientific study of the materials and chemical reactions used to produce thrust in rockets, missiles, and other propulsion systems. It involves the formulation, analysis, and testing of propellants, which can be solid, liquid, or hybrid mixtures. Propellant chemists work to optimize performance, stability, and safety while minimizing environmental impact. Their work is critical to the development of space exploration, military defense systems, and commercial rockets.
More about Propellant Chemistry jobs
What cities are hiring for Propellant Chemistry jobs? Cities with the most Propellant Chemistry job openings:
What states have the most Propellant Chemistry jobs? States with the most job openings for Propellant Chemistry jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Propellant Chemistry jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Propellant Chemistry jobs are:
Propellant Chemistry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propellant Chemistry job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,292 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Systems Engineer VI - Ballistician

Voyager Technologies, Inc.

Reno, NV • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Voyager is an innovative defense, national security and space technology company committed to advancing and delivering transformative, mission-critical solutions. We tackle the most complex challenges to unlock new frontiers for human progress, fortify national security, and protect critical assets to lead in the race for technological and operational superiority from ground to space.
Forge the Future: Join Voyager Technologies
The future belongs to those who build it. At Voyager Technologies, we're building technologies that protect lives, expand frontiers and prepare us for what's next. And we're doing that with people who are wired to solve, build, adapt and lead. These roles are not for the faint of heart.
You'll help lay the foundation for humanity's future. Join a culture where innovation thrives, curiosity is rewarded, and impact is real. We're a company of doers, thinkers and builders, united by purpose and grounded in reality.
If you want to put your skills to work where the stakes are real and the mission is bigger than any one person, forge the future with Voyager.
Job Summary:
Ballistics
  • Possesses expertise in propellant chemistry, grain design optimization, advanced ballistics modeling, and experimental validation, and can contribute to the formulation and manufacturing of solid propellant compositions, understanding safety considerations and performing basic testing.
  • Develop and maintain predictive ballistic models for solid rocket motors, including regression rate, chamber pressure, temperature sensitivity, and impulse performance.
  • Design internal grain geometries to achieve required thrust profiles and mission performance.
  • Perform performance trade studies and sensitivity analyses using tools such as NASA CEA or in-house MATLAB codes.
  • Analyze static fire test data to reconcile model predictions with measured motor performance.
  • Collaborate with chemists and formulation engineers on propellant selection and characterization (e.g., composite, double-base, or minimum-smoke propellants).
  • Support motor design integration with structures, thermal systems, and materials engineering teams.
  • Generate technical documentation, test plans, reports, and configuration control inputs.
  • Contribute to safety reviews, hazard assessments, and compliance with DoD, NASA, and ITAR regulations.
  • Knowledge and ability to use SPP and/or HERO codes.
  • Has expertise in advanced modeling techniques, including combustion modeling and transient response prediction.

Testing
  • Possesses knowledge in test assembly and integration, data acquisition systems, statistical modeling, multivariate analysis, time series analysis, measurement techniques, and test strategies.

Design
  • Can apply fundamental design principles, generate basic igniter designs, can solve complex design challenges, analyze igniter performance, perform stress analysis, develop gas generator designs, and contribute to solid rocket motor systems.

Drafting/Modelling
  • Possesses expertise in creating intricate 2D or 3D designs, optimizing productivity through CAD commands and tools, producing precise technical drawings, and interpreting complex GD&T symbols.
  • Can create 3D models and generate complex assemblies and technical drawings with precision.

Analysis
  • Is able to carry out basic structural analysis and thermal analysis tasks.
  • Can interpret results, validate them, optimize designs, and make informed decisions.

Communications
  • Possesses exceptional skills in communication theories, presentation design, technical presentation, and writing specialized technical documents.
  • Can provide expert guidance on complex communication challenges, develop compelling narratives, tailor content for specific audiences, and provide expert consultation on presentation strategies and audience engagement methods.
  • Excels in writing technical documents with precision and accuracy.

Responsibilities:
  • Develop, test, and maintain simulation models, tools, and automation scripts for MSAD and Test teams.
  • Contribute to dev ops infrastructure and scripting to support software test, integration, and validation workflows.
  • Follow and help enforce coding standards and software best practices across simulation activities.
  • Support software unit-level verification efforts for simulation, performance, and test software products.
  • Participate in configuration management, documentation, and deployment of simulation and test tools.
  • Create basic data processing, visualization, and reporting scripts to support software analysis and test campaigns.
  • Assist in the deployment and configuration of small computing clusters or simulation servers under supervision.
  • Contribute to studies and prototyping of alternate computing architectures (e.g., real-time simulators).
  • Implement test cases and support automated testing based on program objectives and engineering needs.
  • Assist in packaging and delivering simulation tools and components to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Support alignment of simulation components with MBSE models and SysML/Cameo artifacts.
  • Implement and test numerical methods and algorithms, including filtering, data fitting, and basic optimization routines, under guidance.

Skills:
  • Proficient in C++, Python, MATLAB/Simulink, and scripting languages.
  • Familiar with dev ops practices including scripting, test automation, and version control (e.g., Git).
  • Understanding of simulation frameworks, modeling principles, and numerical analysis.
  • Experience with software debugging, system integration, and basic performance testing.
  • Familiar with SysML and MBSE workflows (e.g., Cameo) or willing to learn.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently on well-defined tasks and collaborate effectively in a team setting.

Required Qualifications:
  • 15+ years of mechanical engineering experience.
  • Bachelor of Science required in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or other relevant engineering discipline from an accredited university. May consider equivalent experience in lieu of degree.
  • Must be able to travel approximately 10% of the time.

Preferred:
  • Rocket motor design and testing experience.
  • Master of Science required in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or other relevant engineering discipline from an accredited university. May consider equivalent experience in lieu of degree.

Please click "Apply" to submit your application.
Voyager offers a highly competitive total compensation package designed to support the well-being, growth, and success of our employees. Employees benefit from a flexible and comprehensive rewards program that supports both professional and personal well-being.
  • Unlimited Flexible Time Off (FTO), empowering employees to take the time they need to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families, with a significant portion of premiums covered by the company and many benefits paid at 100% for employees
  • Flexible, affordable gym memberships with 12,700+ options nationwide including 24 Hour Fitness, EoS Fitness, Crunch Fitness, Anytime Fitness, Blink Fitness, Chuze Fitness and more! No long term contracts and FREE on-demand workout videos before you enroll
  • 401(k) retirement plan with a company match of up to 4% to help you build long-term financial security
  • Company wellness programs that support physical and mental well-being
  • Additional voluntary benefits and employee support resources
  • The opportunity to work alongside a highly talented team in an innovative, mission driven environment

Voyager is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran
The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general content and requirements for performance of this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities, and requirements. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter the scope of work within the framework of this job description at any time without prior notice.
California pay range
$161,700-$199,400 USD
Nevada pay range
$153,615-$189,430 USD

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