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Propulsion Design Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Design modifications of existing components and prototypes to increase performance and improve ... Bachelor's degree in engineering * 2+ years of relevant hardware design and ownership experience

We design and deliver propulsion and defense systems that solve the most urgent and critical ... Bachelor's degree in engineering * 2+ years of relevant hardware design and ownership experience

Propulsion Engineer II

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$92K - $115K/yr

We design and deliver propulsion and defense systems that solve the most urgent and critical ... Bachelor's degree in engineering * 2+ years of relevant hardware design and ownership experience

Propulsion Engineer (II - III)

Denver, CO · On-site

$95K - $165K/yr

YOUR MISSION As a Propulsion Engineer at True Anomaly, you will be responsible for design, build ... Design, analyze, and optimize propulsion systems and components for advanced satellites and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Propulsion Design Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$74.7K

$126.4K

$187.7K

How much do propulsion design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion design engineer in Colorado is $126,435.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,200.00 and $144,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is propulsion engineer a good career?

Propulsion design engineers develop and improve propulsion systems for aerospace and automotive applications, often requiring strong skills in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and CAD tools. The field offers opportunities in research, development, and manufacturing, with a demand for specialized technical knowledge and often requiring a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in advanced engineering and innovation, with job stability in industries like aerospace, defense, and transportation.

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

To thrive as a Propulsion Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with propulsion system design principles. Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), finite element analysis tools, and propulsion modeling programs, along with relevant certifications like a Professional Engineer (PE) license, is highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure innovative, safe, and efficient propulsion solutions that meet rigorous industry standards and project requirements.

How does a Propulsion Design Engineer typically collaborate with other teams during the development process?

Propulsion Design Engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including aerodynamics, systems engineering, manufacturing, and testing groups. Regular cross-functional meetings and design reviews are common to ensure that propulsion systems are integrated seamlessly with the overall vehicle design. Effective communication is key, as engineers must translate complex technical requirements and address feedback from various stakeholders to meet project goals and timelines.

What is a propulsion design engineer?

A propulsion design engineer develops and tests propulsion systems for vehicles such as rockets, aircraft, or spacecraft. They use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and simulations to create efficient and reliable propulsion components, often working in aerospace or defense industries. Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and materials science is essential for this role.

Can I make 200k as an aerospace engineer?

Propulsion Design Engineers in aerospace often earn salaries approaching or exceeding $200,000 annually, especially with advanced experience, specialized skills, and working in high-cost-of-living regions or for major aerospace companies. Factors such as years of experience, certifications, and the complexity of projects influence earning potential, with senior roles and those in leadership positions more likely to reach this level.

What does a Propulsion Design Engineer do?

A Propulsion Design Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and testing propulsion systems, such as engines or thrusters, used in vehicles like aircraft, spacecraft, rockets, or automobiles. Their work involves selecting appropriate materials, creating detailed designs, and ensuring systems meet performance, safety, and regulatory standards. They collaborate with other engineering teams to integrate propulsion systems into larger vehicles and may also troubleshoot and improve existing designs. This role requires strong knowledge in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and mechanical engineering principles.

What is the salary of a propulsion engineer?

The salary of a propulsion design engineer typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills or working in high-cost areas can earn higher compensation, often exceeding $150,000. Industry certifications and proficiency with simulation tools like CFD can also influence salary levels.

What is the difference between Propulsion Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPropulsion Design EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Propulsion EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentAircraft, spacecraft, or missile propulsion systems developmentVarious industries including automotive, manufacturing, aerospace
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace, defense, space agenciesBroad industry use across manufacturing, automotive, energy

Propulsion Design Engineers specialize in designing and developing propulsion systems for aerospace and space applications, focusing on propulsion-specific challenges. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems across industries. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Propulsion Design Engineers focus more on propulsion-specific knowledge and applications.

What are popular job titles related to Propulsion Design Engineer jobs in Colorado? For Propulsion Design Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion Design Engineer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion Design Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
Propulsion Engineer, Mechanical Design

Propulsion Engineer, Mechanical Design

Boom Supersonic

Centennial, CO • On-site

$133K - $169K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 18 hours ago


Job description

Boom Supersonic's mission is to make the world dramatically more accessible through a renaissance in supersonic flight. Boom is developing the Symphony supersonic engine, which powers the Overture supersonic airliner and the Superpower natural gas turbine for AI. Overture will fly at twice the speed of today's subsonic jets over water and 50% faster over land with Boomless Cruise.
Start the Best Work of Your Career at Boom
Boom Supersonic is building the breakthrough Overture supersonic airliner and the Superpower natural gas turbine-machines that push the boundaries of physics, manufacturing, and industrial ambition.
But aircraft and engines don't build themselves. The single most important variable in our success is a world-class team-people who are unusually talented, unusually driven, and willing to do what others won't even attempt.
That's where you come in.
Not a traditional engineering job
As a Propulsion Engineer on Mechanical Design at Boom, you won't be executing prescribed CAD tasks within a rigid framework set in stone decades ago.
You'll be part of a small, high-performance turbomachinery engineering team responsible for building one of the most ambitious hardware companies of this century. You'll be part of inventing a new 21st century engine manufacturer from the ground up, one that is built on modern tooling and a bias toward action.
You won't be a cog in a machine. You'll be a trusted contributor designing real parts on a real engine - the Symphony turbofan that will power the Overture supersonic airliner and Superpower to waterlessley power AI data centers - surrounded by senior engineers who will mentor your growth into deeper ownership.
Role Overview
As part of the Propulsion Team, you will:
  • Work on the design features covering all the mechanically dynamic phenomena in the engine, including loads, actuation, rotordynamics, failure scenarios, and more
  • Interpret, define and review tolerances and features on part drawings
  • Create physical layouts, models, and general arrangements of modules and whole engines such as 2D cross sections, 3D models, tolerance stackups, etc.
  • Contribute to the creation of whole engine models that incorporate structures, rotors, ducts, services routing, actuation, secondary air systems and thermal management
  • Collaborate on specifications and design requirements for each module and help lead cross discipline integration efforts
  • Work on all mechanical aspects of the engine, including fits, seals, mounts, joints and other components
  • Implement plans for assembly and disassembly for both development and production
  • Beyond these specific things, there are many opportunities to get involved in all aspects of Symphony engine development and Overture propulsion system integration, including fabrication and testing. Bring your curiosity!

Ideal Candidate
  • Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or related field
  • 5+ years of professional experience
  • Expert-level experience with CAD systems such as 3DX, Catia or NX
  • Experience in Geometrics Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Familiarity with a variety of manufacturing techniques used in gas turbine production (single crystal casting, hollow core fan blades, linear friction welding, additive manufacturing, etc.)
  • Experience in designing turbomachinery modules and parts
  • Ability to clearly think through and communicate coupled engine and aircraft system level interactions

What Will Set You Apart
  • Rig testing or engine testing experience
  • Supersonic jet engine design experience
  • Part 33 commercial certification experience
  • Experience with parametric modeling and PLM/PDM
  • Knowledge of heat transfer and structural analyses
  • Experience in the part disposition process
  • Background in developing design tools, methods or processes
  • Proficiency with Python or similar programming languages
  • A strong desire to avoid bureaucracy and move fast in a dynamic environment

Compensation
  • P3 Level - Typically 5 - 10 years of experience - Base salary range: $107,000 - $135,000
  • P4 Level - Typically 10 - 15 years of experience - Base salary range: $133,000 - $169,000

Actual compensation will vary based on factors including, but not limited to, location, experience, and performance. The range listed is just one component of Boom's total rewards package. Other elements may include long-term incentives/equity, flexible PTO, and a suite of progressive benefits designed to support our employees' well-being and growth.
There is no set deadline to apply for this job opportunity. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the search is no longer active.
The mission
Engineering roles at Boom are unlike anything else in aerospace or energy: designing a supersonic airliner from first principles, developing advanced propulsion systems, scaling complex hardware programs in a modern manufacturing environment, and building breakthrough industrial turbines to power the next generation of AI data centers.
These aren't jobs. They are career-defining opportunities. Some may even find their calling.
This job is demanding and rewarding
At some companies, you can choose to work long, smart, or hard. At Boom, you'll be doing all three.
You'll move with urgency. You'll manage ambiguity. You'll operate at a high standard. And your work will be visible to company leadership, including the founder. If you want a comfortable engineering role where you run processes and rely on executing procedures defined long ago, look elsewhere.
If you want to be part of a team that could be remembered a century from now, keep reading.
The primary reward of this role is the work itself: partnering with extraordinary people to design and build breakthrough machines. You'll also be well compensated, with competitive cash compensation and meaningful equity grants with significant upside. This is a chance to build more than a product. It's a chance to build a company that history will remember.
Why Boom
Boom is building one of the most ambitious industrial programs of this century. The work is hard, the pace is fast, and the expectations are high.
In return, you'll get real ownership, the chance to work with exceptional teammates, and the opportunity to help build a product line capable of powering the future of supersonic flight and next-generation energy systems.
If this excites you, click apply and let us know why you're excited.
ITAR Requirement
To conform to U.S. Government aerospace technology export regulations (ITAR and EAR), applicant 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. Learn more about ITAR here.
Boom is an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.
Want to build a faster future? Come join Boom.