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Propeller Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Propeller information

See Michigan salary details

$24.4K

$149.6K

$300.7K

How much do propeller jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for propeller in Michigan is $149,610.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,500.00 and $176,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Propeller Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with expertise in fluid dynamics and propulsion systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, finite element analysis tools, and industry standards like ISO or FAA regulations is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills set top performers apart in this field. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and innovative propeller designs that meet industry and regulatory requirements.

What is a Propeller job?

A Propeller job typically refers to a role within a company named Propeller or a position related to propeller design, maintenance, or operation in industries like aviation or marine engineering. Responsibilities may include inspecting, repairing, and optimizing propellers for efficiency and safety. Some roles also involve working with aerodynamic or hydrodynamic principles to design propellers for aircraft or watercraft. The specific duties depend on the industry and company employing the individual.

What are some typical challenges faced by propeller engineers in the aviation industry?

Propeller engineers often encounter challenges such as meeting strict safety and regulatory standards, optimizing designs for both performance and fuel efficiency, and troubleshooting vibration or noise issues in various operating conditions. They frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including aerodynamics specialists and manufacturing engineers, to refine designs and resolve technical issues. Balancing innovative solutions with cost and production constraints is another common aspect of the role.

What are propellers and what do they do?

Propellers are mechanical devices with blades that rotate to generate thrust, most commonly used in airplanes, boats, and drones. By spinning, they push air or water backwards, which moves the vehicle forward according to Newton's third law of motion. Propellers are essential for providing propulsion and maneuverability in various types of vehicles and machinery. Their design, size, and materials can vary depending on the application and the type of vehicle in which they are used.

What is the difference between Propeller vs Drone Operator?

AspectPropellerDrone Operator
Required CertificationsFAA Part 107 certification (for commercial use)FAA Part 107 certification (for commercial use)
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing, logisticsSurveillance, filming, inspection in various locations
Industry UsageTransportation, logistics, manufacturingMedia, surveillance, inspection

Propeller professionals typically focus on the design, manufacturing, or maintenance of propeller systems used in various industries. Drone Operators, on the other hand, pilot drones for tasks like filming, inspection, or surveillance. While both roles may require FAA Part 107 certification and share some work environments, Propeller roles are more technical and manufacturing-oriented, whereas Drone Operators are more operational and field-based.

What are popular job titles related to Propeller jobs in Michigan? For Propeller jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Propeller job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,610 per year, or $71.9 per hour.
Senior Marine Propulsion Engineer

Senior Marine Propulsion Engineer

Michigan Wheel

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$96K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

Senior Marine Propulsion Engineer
Location: On Site| Department: Engineering | Date: February 2025
Are you a highly skilled Marine Propulsion Engineer with expertise in hydrodynamics, CFD modeling, and propeller design? Do you thrive on solving complex engineering challenges to improve marine propulsion efficiency? If so, we want you to join our team!
About the Role
We are looking for a Senior Marine Propulsion Engineer to lead the design and analysis of high-performance marine propellers. In this role, you will apply advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods and work closely with manufacturing and testing teams to optimize propulsion system performance.
Key Responsibilities
Design and analyze marine propellers using CFD software (Star-CCM+) and numerical methods
Develop and validate computational models for propeller performance prediction
Optimize designs for efficiency, cavitation performance, and structural integrity
Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are practical and producible
Provide engineering leadership and guidance to junior team members
Analyze real-world performance data to improve future designs
Evaluate structural designs of propellers, struts, and rudders using FEA (ABAQUS)
Author technical reports and present solutions to clients
What You'll Bring
Master's or Ph.D. in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or a related field
5+ years of experience in marine propulsion system design
Strong expertise in hydrodynamics and computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
Proficiency in Star-CCM+ and numerical analysis tools
Knowledge of propeller performance optimization and marine propulsion systems
Strong problem-solving, technical writing, and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications (Bonus Points!)
Ph.D. in a related field
Experience with cavitation analysis and testing
Knowledge of propeller manufacturing processes
Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar languages
Experience with classification society rules (ABS, DNV, NAVSEA, etc.)
Project management experience
Work Environment
Office-based role with occasional shop floor visits
PPE required in manufacturing areas
Potential exposure to machine shop conditions (noise, metal particles, etc.)
If you're ready to take your expertise in marine propulsion engineering to the next level, apply today and be part of our innovative, high-performance team!
Apply Now!