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Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Peraton

Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$104K - $166K/yr

Responsibilities The Propulsion Engineer provides technical intelligence analysis and engineering expertise on foreign missile, rocket, and space-launch propulsion systems. The incumbent evaluates ...

Blue Origin

Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$121K - $169K/yr

As a Propulsion Engineer, you will be a key member of our dynamic team, dedicated to the design, development, and implementation of on-orbit propulsion systems. Your expertise will directly ...

Peraton

Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Responsibilities The Propulsion Engineer provides technical intelligence analysis and engineering expertise on foreign missile, rocket, and space-launch propulsion systems. The incumbent evaluates ...

Blue Origin LLC

Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$121.02 - $169.43/hr

As a Propulsion Engineer, you will be a key member of our dynamic team, dedicated to the design, development, and implementation of on-orbit propulsion systems. Your expertise will directly ...

Peraton

Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Responsibilities The Propulsion Engineer provides technical intelligence analysis and engineering expertise on foreign missile, rocket, and space-launch propulsion systems. The incumbent evaluates ...

Plasma Processes LLC

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Rubicon Space Systems Senior Propulsion Engineer (Step II) Position Summary The Senior Propulsion Engineer (Step II) is accountable for the execution, quality, and on-schedule delivery of engineering ...

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Propulsion Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$37.2K

$93.2K

$151.8K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineer in Alabama is $93,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,800.00 and $107,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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.

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 roles or those with specialized skills in aerospace or rocket propulsion can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.
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For Propulsion Engineer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineer job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,199 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Chief Propulsion Engineer

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Applied Technology Solutions, Inc
1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Applied Technology Solutions, Incexternal

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Chief Propulsion Engineer
The Chief Propulsion Engineer serves as the company's technical authority for all propulsion systems across programs. This individual defines propulsion strategy, leads propulsion architecture trades, oversees design and development activities, and mentors a growing propulsion engineering organization. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise with demonstrated experience transitioning propulsion technologies from concept through flight qualification and production. This role partners closely with Systems Engineering, Airframe, Guidance & Control, Manufacturing, Program Management, Business Development, and executive leadership to develop affordable, producible, high-performance propulsion solutions.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the company's technical authority for propulsion systems.
  • Lead propulsion architecture selection and technology roadmaps.
  • Develop solid rocket motor, ramjet, ducted rocket, or integrated rocket-ramjet propulsion concepts.
  • Lead propulsion system performance analysis including internal ballistics, combustion, nozzle performance, thermal management, structural loads, and propellant performance.
  • Establish propulsion requirements and verification plans.
  • Lead SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, FRR, and production readiness reviews.
  • Support system-level trade studies involving range, speed, maneuverability, cost, manufacturability, and producibility.
  • Oversee propulsion supplier technical management and source selection.
  • Interface with DoD customers, AFRL, DARPA, Navy, Air Force, Army, and prime contractors.
  • Provide technical leadership during proposal development and customer presentations.
  • Mentor propulsion engineers and establish engineering standards.
  • Support failure investigations and corrective actions.
  • Ensure compliance with military standards and qualification requirements.
  • Work with manufacturing to transition designs into production.

Required Qualifications (Education, Certifications, Experience):
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
  • Master's degree preferred; Ph.D. highly desirable.
  • 15+ years of propulsion engineering experience.
  • Experience developing missile propulsion systems.
  • Expertise in solid rocket motors, ramjets, ducted rockets, air-breathing propulsion, or hypersonic propulsion.
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Strong understanding of combustion, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, structural mechanics, and propellant chemistry.
  • Experience with propulsion qualification testing and flight testing.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Integrated rocket-ramjet experience.
  • Hypersonic weapon development.
  • Insensitive munitions requirements.
  • Energetic materials expertise.
  • CFD and FEA experience.
  • MBSE familiarity.
  • DoD acquisition program experience.
  • Technical publications or patents.

Direct technical experience in the following areas:
  • Rocket motor sizing and optimization.
  • Grain design.
  • Propellant formulation.
  • Combustion instability.
  • Ignition systems.
  • Nozzle design.
  • Thrust vector control.
  • Thermal protection systems.
  • High-temperature materials.
  • Mission performance analysis.

Additional Information:
  • This position will require the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required depending on program needs.
  • Occasional domestic travel may be required to support testing, supplier visits, and customer meetings.

Note:
ATS is a drug-free workplace. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited. All candidates who receive conditional offers of employment are subject to drug testing. In addition, ATS is an E-Verify employer.
Export Control Regulations:
Applicants for employment at ATS must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Applied Technology Solutions, Inc. is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Applicants who need a reasonable accommodation during the hiring process are encouraged to contact us.

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