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Propulsion Controls Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Propulsion Controls Engineer

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Job Title Propulsion Controls Engineer About Canoo Canoo's mission is to bring EVs to Everyone and ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent * Experience using MATLAB / Simulink ...

Senior Propulsion Controls Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$106K - $140K/yr

Position: Sr. Propulsion Controls Engineer - Automotive FLSA Classification: Exempt Reports to ... You will also be engineering responsible for certain aspects of pre-production builds. As the team ...

Position: Sr. Propulsion Controls Engineer - Automotive FLSA Classification: Exempt Reports to ... You will also be engineering responsible for certain aspects of pre-production builds. As the team ...

Advanced Controls Lead Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Stellantis' Propulsion Controls Engineering Department is seeking an Advanced Controls Lead Engineer to lead the design and implemention of cutting edge controls solutions for next generation ...

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Propulsion Controls Engineering information

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$55K

$96.6K

$131K

How much do propulsion controls engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion controls engineering in the United States is $96,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a propulsion controls engineer a job in demand?

Propulsion controls engineering is a specialized field with steady demand in aerospace, defense, and transportation industries. Professionals with skills in control systems, automation, and relevant software tools are sought after, especially as industries focus on advanced propulsion technologies and automation systems.

What is the difference between Propulsion Controls Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectPropulsion Controls EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering; experience with control systemsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; often includes CAD and thermodynamics
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing propulsion control systems, often in aerospace or defense industriesDesigning mechanical systems, product development, manufacturing
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace, defense, and transportation sectorsBroadly in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

Propulsion Controls Engineering focuses on designing and managing control systems for propulsion units, often requiring specialized knowledge of control theory and electrical systems. Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of mechanical systems and components. Both roles share foundational engineering principles but differ in their specific applications and industry focus.

What is propulsion controls engineering?

Propulsion Controls Engineering is a specialized field focused on designing, developing, and maintaining the control systems that manage the operation of propulsion systems, such as engines or motors, in vehicles like ships, aircraft, and spacecraft. Engineers in this role ensure that propulsion units operate safely, efficiently, and reliably by integrating software, electronics, and mechanical components. They often work on projects involving automation, diagnostics, and optimization of propulsion performance. This field is critical in industries like aerospace, marine, and automotive engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a propulsion controls engineer?

To thrive as a Propulsion Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or electrical engineering, control systems, and propulsion technologies, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB/Simulink), PLC programming, and industry standards or certifications like EIT or PE is common. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills set outstanding engineers apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing, testing, and maintaining reliable and efficient propulsion control systems in complex engineering environments.

What are some common challenges faced by propulsion controls engineers when integrating new control systems into existing propulsion platforms?

Propulsion controls engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between legacy hardware and new control algorithms, managing system stability during integration, and verifying that safety and regulatory standards are consistently met. Effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including software developers, electrical engineers, and test engineers—is crucial to address these complexities. Additionally, rigorous testing and validation must be conducted to minimize risks and guarantee reliable performance before deployment.

What do propulsion controls engineers do?

Propulsion controls engineers design, develop, and test control systems that manage the operation of propulsion equipment such as engines and thrusters. They work with electronic control units, sensors, and software to ensure efficient and safe performance, often using tools like MATLAB or Simulink. Their role involves troubleshooting, system integration, and ensuring compliance with safety standards in aerospace or marine environments.
More about Propulsion Controls Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Propulsion Controls Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Propulsion Controls Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Propulsion Controls Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Propulsion Controls Engineering jobs are:
Infographic showing various Propulsion Controls Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,574 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Propulsion Controls Systems Engineer (EV/Hybrid Powertrain Architecture)

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Stellantis rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 130 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 44 rated automakers


Job description

Stellantis' Vehicle and Propulsion Controls organization is seeking a Propulsion Controls Systems Engineer to define and deliver end-to-end propulsion system architecture for next-generation electrified and hybrid powertrain technologies.
In this role, you will translate vehicle-level feature requirements into scalable, high-performance system solutions, ensuring alignment across software, hardware, controls, and physical system integration. You will play a key role in advancing propulsion control strategies and enabling modern EV, BEV, and hybrid vehicle platforms.
The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment and is passionate about solving complex technical challenges across global engineering teams.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and maintain operational, functional, and physical system architecture for propulsion control systems
  • Define system concepts, use cases, and operational scenarios for electrified powertrain applications
  • Perform functional decomposition and allocate requirements across subsystems and components
  • Define end-to-end propulsion system architecture (functional and physical) across ECU, sensors, actuators, and networks
  • Contribute to development and refinement of propulsion control strategies and algorithms
  • Support requirements engineering, system modeling, and MBSE activities (SysML)
  • Develop architecture artifacts including system definition documents, interface specifications, and EE network topology
  • Evaluate feasibility of vehicle-level functional objectives and provide design feedback to vehicle engineering teams
  • Define and document feature requirements and system behaviors
  • Develop DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) for assigned features
  • Support planning and deliverables aligned with internal and external stakeholder requirements

Key Competencies
  • Strong systems engineering and architecture mindset
  • Deep understanding of propulsion controls, control algorithms, and calibration interactions
  • Ability to lead and collaborate across global, cross-functional teams
  • Strong analytical thinking with ability to evaluate design trade-offs
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Systems, or Controls Engineering
  • A minimum of 1 year of experience in propulsion controls / systems engineering
  • Good domain knowledge in:
    • Engine / Hybrid / BEV control systems
    • Control algorithms and system behavior
    • Requirements engineering and system architecture

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree or PhD in Controls, Systems, or Automotive Engineering
  • Experience with:
    • MATLAB/Simulink modeling and controls development
    • MBSE (SysML, Rhapsody, Cameo)
    • DOORS, ALM, PLM (ENOVIA)
  • Knowledge of:
    • CAN /LIN/Ethernet communication protocols
    • Functional safety (ISO 26262)
    • ASPICE / Stellantis SE processes

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