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Propellant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ARA

Senior Propellant Engineer

Indian Head, MD · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

We are actively searching for a Senior Propellant Engineer to join our team. The Senior Engineer ... Operating Procedures (SOPs), preparing Quality Project Plans (QPPs) and Alternate Control Plans ...

Berriehill Research

Senior Propellant Engineer

Indian Head, MD · Hybrid

$112K - $153K/yr

We are actively searching for a Senior Propellant Engineer to join our team. The Senior Engineer ... Operating Procedures (SOPs), preparing Quality Project Plans (QPPs) and Alternate Control Plans ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Engineer II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

We are seeking an Engineer II - Propulsion to contribute to the development of propellant tanks ... team operating at the center of spacecraft development, integration, and mission execution ...

P3 Technologies LLC

Test Facility Director

Jupiter, FL · On-site

Establish and reinforce a strong safety culture appropriate for hazardous cryogenic and propellant operations. * Lead development and enforcement of operating procedures, lockout/tagout protocols ...

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Propellant Operator information

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$14

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$26

How much do propellant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for propellant operator in the United States is $19.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Propellant Operator, you need a strong understanding of chemical handling, safety protocols, and mechanical systems, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Familiarity with hazardous materials procedures, monitoring equipment, and safety certifications such as OSHA HAZMAT are typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work calmly under pressure are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, ensuring operational efficiency, and preventing accidents in environments where hazardous materials are handled.

What are some common safety challenges faced by Propellant Operators, and how are they addressed on the job?

Propellant Operators often work with highly sensitive and potentially hazardous materials, making safety a top priority. Common challenges include handling volatile chemicals, preventing contamination, and ensuring precise measurements during mixing and transfer. These challenges are addressed through rigorous adherence to safety protocols, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), regular safety drills, and close coordination with safety engineers and quality control teams. Continuous training and clear communication within the team help maintain a safe work environment and minimize risks.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Propellant operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily wages are more common in specialized roles like senior executives, certain medical specialists, or highly experienced contractors in industries like oil and gas. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive experience. Most jobs with daily pay of $2000 are in high-demand, high-risk fields or executive-level roles.

What jobs work with explosives?

Propellant operators and other explosive-related jobs involve handling, mixing, and loading explosives used in mining, construction, or military applications. These roles require specialized training, safety certifications, and adherence to strict safety protocols due to the hazardous nature of explosives.

What jobs will boom in 2026?

Propellant operators are expected to see growth due to increased demand in aerospace, defense, and space exploration industries. Skills in handling hazardous materials, safety protocols, and familiarity with automation and control systems will be valuable for future job opportunities in this field.

What is the difference between Propellant Operator vs Rocket Propellant Technician?

AspectPropellant OperatorRocket Propellant Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, fueling stationsRocket testing facilities, aerospace labs
Industry UsageSpace agencies, defense contractorsSpace agencies, aerospace companies
Job FocusHandling, mixing, and fueling propellantsPreparing, testing, and maintaining rocket propellants

While both roles involve working with rocket propellants, Propellant Operators primarily handle fueling and safety procedures in manufacturing settings. Rocket Propellant Technicians focus more on preparing and testing propellants in aerospace laboratories. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path in the space industry.

What are propellant operators?

Propellant operators are specialized technicians who are responsible for handling, preparing, and transferring propellants—such as rocket fuels or other energetic materials—used in aerospace, defense, or industrial applications. Their duties often include monitoring equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and managing the storage and transportation of hazardous substances. Propellant operators play a crucial role in the functioning of facilities that require precise handling of volatile chemicals, and must be thoroughly trained in safety and emergency response procedures.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Propellant operators typically do not earn $10,000 a month without specialized training and experience. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include roles such as commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers, which may require certifications or apprenticeships. These positions usually demand technical skills, on-the-job training, or licensing but not necessarily a college degree.
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Propellant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propellant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 58% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,576 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Senior Propellant Chemical Engineer

L3HHCM20

Camden, AR

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Specialist, Materials & Process Engineering

Job Code: 38679

Job Location: Camden, AR OR Culpeper, VA

Job Schedule: 4/10: Employees work 10 hour days, 4 days a week 

Job Description:

The Missile Solutions Segment of L3Harris Technologies is seeking a Senior Propellant Chemical Engineer.  This forward-deployed propellant chemist role within the Propulsion Materials and Process Engineering team performs assignments requiring an application of advanced principles, theories and concepts in the propulsion field with an emphasis on propellant chemistry technology and manufacturing with a working knowledge of other related disciplines (thermal and structural), working directly with Propellant Operations. Experience in process control, lean manufacturing best practices, and manufacturing operations experience of items such as propellants, explosives and liners is desired.

Essential Functions:

  • Designs, develops and modifies processes and methods for the manufacture and utilization of various solid rocket propellants and energetics formulations.
  • Provides imaginative, thorough and practical solutions to a wide range of technical problems through the application of chemistry and/or chemical engineering disciplines and tools.
  • Participation in design processes including trade studies, supplier selection, concurrent design and development, materials characterization, data analysis, and drawing review.
  • Responsible for the preparation, execution and maintenance of materials and process specifications, and materials control plans (i.e. PMPP, corrosion control and contamination control plans).
  • Analyzes materials and material components to establish operating data, conducts experimental or laboratory tests and evaluates results. Selects materials for inclusion in products based on analysis of specifications and reliability.
  • Completes documentation and procedures for processing, testing and use of materials.
  • Drives corrective and preventive action to ensure continual improvement: Investigates and determines root causes of problems, develops and implements corrective and preventive actions, including leading failure investigations.
  • Ability to obtain a US Secret Security Clearance.

Qualifications:

  • Requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Engineering and 4 years of prior related technical experience in energetic materials. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 8 years of prior related experience. 

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Master's or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Engineering or related science discipline preferred.
  • Knowledge of chemical principles, thermodynamics, polymer chemistry, structure/property relationships, kinetics, and data analysis.
  • Experience with energetic materials, statistical analysis, programming and experimental set-up and data acquisition is a plus.

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