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Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TRC Talent Solutions

Propulsion Engineer

Sandy Springs, GA · On-site +1

$69.75 - $70/hr

This Propulsion Engineer will combine deep expertise in propulsion and thermal systems with hands-on hardware development experience. The ideal candidate has worked on propulsion system design ...

New

Vast

Propulsion Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$112K - $159K/yr

Vast is looking for a Propulsion Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Haven-1 propulsion , to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of ...

Vast

Propulsion Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$137K - $195K/yr

Vast is looking for a Propulsion Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Haven-1 propulsion , to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of ...

True Scout Partners

Propulsion Engineer

Chandler, AZ

We are seeking a Senior Propulsion & Fuel Systems Engineer with strong FAA certification and systems safety experience to lead and coordinate the integration of advanced propulsion and fuel systems ...

Tuskegee University

Position Information Position Title Propulsion Engineer Status Full Time Job Summary NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Propulsion Engineer to support the ...

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Propulsion Engineer information

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineer in the United States is $102,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a propulsion engineer do?

A propulsion engineer helps build propulsion systems for aircraft, spacecraft, or missiles. Their job duties include designing, building, and testing propulsion systems. They may also develop assessment tools to determine if equipment will work in practice. A propulsion engineer often works on a large team along with other aerospace and mechanical engineers.

What is the difference between Propulsion Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPropulsion EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related fields; often requires experience in propulsion systemsBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering; broader focus on mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and development of propulsion systems for aerospace or automotive industriesDesign, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical components across various industries
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace, defense, and space industriesManufacturing, automotive, energy, and many other sectors

While both roles involve mechanical principles, Propulsion Engineers specialize in propulsion systems for aerospace and automotive applications, focusing on propulsion design, testing, and integration. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems across multiple industries. The choice depends on your specific interest in propulsion technology versus general mechanical design.

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

To thrive as a Propulsion Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with propulsion system design and testing. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB or ANSYS, and relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication help you excel in cross-functional teams and complex projects. These skills ensure efficient development, testing, and optimization of propulsion systems critical to the performance and safety of aerospace vehicles.

How much do propulsion engineers get paid?

Propulsion engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $80,000 and $130,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior or specialized propulsion engineers with advanced skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace and defense industries.

What is a propulsion engineer?

Propulsion Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain systems that generate thrust for vehicles such as rockets, airplanes, and spacecraft. They work with various types of engines, including jet engines, rocket motors, and other propulsion technologies to ensure efficient and reliable movement. Their responsibilities often include research, analysis, and troubleshooting related to fuel efficiency, performance, and safety. Propulsion Engineers play a critical role in the aerospace and automotive industries, contributing to advancements in transportation and space exploration.

What are some common challenges propulsion engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Propulsion Engineers often collaborate with specialists in aerodynamics, structures, and systems integration, which can lead to challenges in aligning technical priorities, timelines, and communication styles. Balancing the propulsion system requirements with overall vehicle performance and safety standards demands effective teamwork and adaptability. Navigating these interdisciplinary interactions successfully helps ensure that propulsion components are seamlessly integrated and meet project goals.
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Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,825 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Propulsion Engineer

TRC Talent Solutions

Sandy Springs, GA • On-site, Remote

$69.75 - $70/hr

Temporary

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

TRC is working alongside a nimble firm in the aerospace arena that is seeking a Propulsion Engineer to help a small team of engineers advance novel concepts for high-speed flight research through modeling and simulation. US Citizenship required.  This is a contract role to start.   Position can sit remote or in Atlanta.


This Propulsion Engineer will combine deep expertise in propulsion and thermal systems with hands-on hardware development experience. The ideal candidate has worked on propulsion system design, modeling, analysis, integration, and testing across rocket, airbreathing, or advanced propulsion systems. This is a highly technical role for an engineer who enjoys balancing analytical work (performance modeling, thermal/fluid analysis, design studies) with hands-on activities such as system integration, test preparation, and hot-fire testing.


Key Responsibilities

  • Perform propulsion system design studies, cycle analyses, and performance trade assessments.

  • Design and develop propulsion components including thrust chambers, ignition systems, valves, tanks, and pressurization systems.

  • Create thermal and fluid system models to evaluate performance and reliability.

  • Support propulsion system integration across mechanical, electrical, and fluid subsystems.

  • Participate in ground testing, data analysis, and model validation.

  • Collaborate with suppliers, partners, and customers, including government stakeholders.

  • Present technical progress, system performance, and development plans to customers.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.

  • Strong understanding of propulsion systems, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and combustion.

  • Experience with CAD tools such as SolidWorks, NX, CATIA, or Creo.

  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

  • U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree and 5+ years of relevant aerospace experience.

  • Experience with liquid rocket engine integration and testing.

  • Knowledge of cryogenic systems, fluid network modeling (GFSSP, ROCETS), and aerospace hardware.

  • Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or Fortran.

  • Leadership experience or desire to lead technical teams.

TRC Talent Solutions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.