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Propulsion Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ursa Major

Propulsion Engineer II (Vehicle)

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$92K - $115K/yr

This role sits at the intersection of propulsion design, vehicle integration, systems engineering, and test, with ownership from early concept through flight demonstration and production transition.

Ursa Major

Propulsion Engineer II (Vehicle)

Longmont, CO · On-site

$92K - $115K/yr

We design and deliver propulsion and defense systems that solve the most urgent and critical national security demands. Ursa Major is seeking a Propulsion Engineer II (propulsion systems) to support ...

New

Ursa Major

Propulsion Engineer II (Vehicle)

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$92K - $115K/yr

We design and deliver propulsion and defense systems that solve the most urgent and critical national security demands. Ursa Major is seeking a Propulsion Engineer II (propulsion systems) to support ...

Ursa Major

Propulsion Engineer II (Vehicle)

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$92K - $115K/yr

We design and deliver propulsion and defense systems that solve the most urgent and critical national security demands. Ursa Major is seeking a Propulsion Engineer II (propulsion systems) to support ...

Firefly Aerospace

Test Engineer, Propulsion

TX · On-site

Collaborate with propulsion design engineers, systems engineers, and technicians to resolve technical issues and optimize test operations * Support design reviews and provide test operations input to ...

Firefly Aerospace

Test Engineer, Propulsion

Briggs, TX · On-site

Collaborate with propulsion design engineers, systems engineers, and technicians to resolve technical issues and optimize test operations * Support design reviews and provide test operations input to ...

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Propulsion Design Engineer information

See salary details

$71K

$120.2K

$178.5K

How much do propulsion design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion design engineer in the United States is $120,241.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $137,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Propulsion Design Engineer jobs
What states have the most Propulsion Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Propulsion Design Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion Design Engineer jobs are:
Propulsion Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,241 per year, or $57.8 per hour.
Propulsion Engineer II (Vehicle)

Propulsion Engineer II (Vehicle)

Ursa Major

Berthoud, CO • On-site

$92K - $115K/yr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Ursa Major is seeking a Propulsion Engineer II (propulsion systems) to support the technical definition, integration, and execution of propulsion systems for hypersonic vehicles. 

Ursa Major's teams move fast and does a lot with little.  We are looking for a skilled, fast-learning individual who will serve as a central member of the team and take immediate ownership of their system as a responsible engineer.  This role sits at the intersection of propulsion design, vehicle integration, systems engineering, and test, with ownership from early concept through flight demonstration and production transition.

The ideal candidate brings propulsion experience, strong systems thinking, and the ability to drive technical decisions in fast-paced, hardware-centric programs.

Key Responsibilities

  • Clean sheet design and analysis of fluid & mechanical vehicle components including tanks, structures, feed systems, propellant management, and fluid systems
  • Leverage first-principles engineering to drive design and technical decisions
  • Support rapid development cycles of new designs and changing requirements including testing, data analysis and hands-on hardware work
  • Design modifications of existing components and prototypes to increase performance, improve manufacturability or resolve limitations
  • Support test planning and execution, including ground and flight test support
  • Participate in failure investigations, nonconformance resolution, and continuous design improvement
  • Assembly and testing of first article prototypes
  • Collaborate with the manufacturing, analysis, and test teams to reduce part-to-part variation and discrepancies
  • Work with other engineers at Ursa Major on topics including design of components, system sizing, component testing, and system-level architecture.
  • Interface with customers and external partners during design reviews, technical interchange meetings (TIMs), and integrated product team (IPT) meetings
  • Support manufacturing through design for manufacturability (DFM) and producibility considerations

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
  • 3-5 years of experience in propulsion systems engineering or propulsion-focused vehicle development
  • Demonstrated proficiency with computer aided design and drafting 
  • Experience with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing per ASME Y14.5
  • Working knowledge of and hands-on experience with fluid, mechanical, and electrical systems
  • Desire to take ownership and help wherever needed on the team
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and stay flexible based on customer demands and company priorities along with daily firefighting
  • Excellent problem solving, task management, and communication skills
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance

 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field
  • Desire to take ownership of multiple projects at once
  • 2+ years of Siemens NX CAD programs and Windchill PLM software
  • Experience leading design reviews to communicate design decisions and trades. Well versed in documenting those reviews
  • Experience in design and analysis of tanks, structures or fluids
  • Coordination with analysis and lead engineers to quickly mature designs
  • Demonstrated proficiency with basic principles of design for manufacturing
  • Ability to make sound technical decisions under schedule and performance pressure
  • Experience operating in ISO 9001 or AS9100 certified organizations
  • Strong understanding of industry standards and requirements
  • Demonstrated proficiency with fundamental manual or CNC machining equipment and processes (milling, turning)
  • Experience with fluids, structural and thermal analysis using Ansys software
  • Liquid propellant rocket engine design, test, or analysis

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $92,000 - $115,000, determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. What we can't quantify for you are the exciting challenges, supportive team, and amazing culture we enjoy. 

Classification: Full-time Exempt

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