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Propulsion Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astranis

Propulsion Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Propulsion Engineer As a Propulsion Engineer at Astranis, you will design, evaluate, and test in-space propulsion components and systems. You must have a strong background in the fundamentals of ...

Vast

Propulsion Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

Astranis

Propulsion Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $165K/yr

Propulsion Engineer As a Propulsion Engineer at Astranis, you will design, evaluate, and test in-space propulsion components and systems. You must have a strong background in the fundamentals of ...

AVTC Group

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Propulsion Engineer US Citizen / Permanent Resident Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Onsite in Houston Texas - No remote is available * Serve as the Chemical Propulsion Refueling Lead acting as the ...

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 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.

What are Propulsion Engineers?

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,825 per year, or $49.4 per hour.
Propulsion Engineer

Propulsion Engineer

Astranis

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Propulsion Engineer

As a Propulsion Engineer at Astranis, you will design, evaluate, and test in-space propulsion components and systems. You must have a strong background in the fundamentals of propulsion, hands-on skills, and a desire to work on novel and challenging problems. Past experience with in-space propulsion, launch vehicles, or other fluid systems is a benefit but not required. 

Role
  • Own the full lifecycle of fluid components from requirements definition all the way though on-orbit operation
  • Design, test, integrate, and operate satellite propulsion systems with an emphasis on manufacturability and performance
  • Support satellite propulsion system manufacturing, integration, and testing in a cleanroom and factory environment
  • Develop and streamline design criteria to deliver flight hardware and test equipment
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teammates, including mechanical, thermal, electrical, software, and manufacturing engineers
  • Use strong physics and engineering fundamentals to inform high-level system analysis and understand interdependent system effects
Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science degree in a technical discipline (e.g. engineering, physics)
  • 1-5+ years of professional industry experience in propulsion design and/or manufacturing related role
  • A passion for manufacturing, including working in a fast-paced environment and doing hands-on design/ development.
  • Hands-on experience working with fluid systems
  • Working knowledge of electric and chemical propulsion systems
  • Exceptional time management skills, verbal & written communication skills, and organizational skills
Bonus
  • End-to-end project experience including design, test, build, and operation of complex systems or components
  • Direct experience in Manufacturing Engineering, Weld Engineering, or Integration Engineering roles
  • Direct experience with structural or fluid analysis tools (GFSSP, ANSYS, Fluent, etc)
  • Specific experience manufacturing, testing, or designing precision welded assemblies, electric propulsion systems, or chemical space propulsion systems
  • Strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Familiarity with reading and interpreting industry standards and specifications (AWS D17.1, MIL-STDs, AS/NAS component specifications)
  • Familiarity with Pressurized Systems operation and construction

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