1

Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Staff Propulsion Engineer

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$155K - $260K/yr

YOUR MISSION As a Staff Propulsion Development Engineer at True Anomaly, you will be responsible for design, build, and test of multiple propulsion systems including flight systems and ground test ...

Showing results 21-40

Propulsion Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$43.1K

$108.1K

$176.1K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineer in Colorado is $108,122.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,800.00 and $124,100.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado?

For Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Propulsion Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Propulsion Engineer jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Propulsion Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,122 per year, or $52 per hour.

Staff Propulsion Engineer

True Anomaly

Denver, CO โ€ข On-site

$155K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support the design, analysis, and optimization of propulsion systems and components for advanced satellites.

  • Work propulsion and other spacecraft subsystems from concept to flight, including review of models and drawings.

  • Collaborate with structural, mechanical, thermal, and avionics teams to validate designs and ensure compliance with mission requirements.


Job description

Space is a warfighting domain. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build the technology that secures it.
OUR MISSION
True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors - enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground.
OUR VALUES
  • Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity.
  • What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results.
  • It's the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together.

YOUR MISSION
As a Staff Propulsion Development Engineer at True Anomaly, you will be responsible for design, build, and test of multiple propulsion systems including flight systems and ground test campaigns in the development of our spacecraft. You will be a technical expert for the Propulsion team providing knowledge and mentorship to other engineers. This is an opportunity to design and develop our next generation vehicles, shaping the future of space exploration from the ground up.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Support the design, analysis, and optimization of propulsion systems and components for advanced satellites, ensuring they meet performance and reliability requirements.
  • Work propulsion and other spacecraft subsystems from concept to flight.
  • Review models and drawings from top level down to piece parts as needed.
  • Work collaboratively with structural, mechanical, thermal, and avionics teams to validate designs and ensure compliance with mission requirements.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance design efficiency, manufacturability, and system performance.
  • Present content to internal and external customers.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
  • 10+ years of professional experience in Launch or Space Vehicles.
  • Demonstrated experience with stage systems, rocket engines, flight valves, and/or detailed fluid system architecture and analysis.
  • Propulsion test experience including hot-fire or pressure testing, vehicle-level propulsion checkouts, and propellant loading.
  • Fluid system design and analysis including pressurization system sizing, water hammer analysis, pressure budgets, FMECAs, and FDIR architecture.
  • Demonstrated ability to work and lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Passion for the space industry.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  • 10+ years professional experience in development and production of space systems.
  • 5+ years project leadership experience.
  • Valve and/or propellant tank design, analysis, and manufacturing experience.
  • Experience in or exposure to mechanical design for propulsion systems, mechanisms, and/or optical payloads.
  • Track record of innovative problem-solving in complex mechanical designs.
  • Experience working in a startup or similarly dynamic and fast-paced environment.
  • Familiarity with full vehicle lifecycle from concept through production.

COMPENSATION
  • Base Salary: $155,000-$260,000
  • Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to maintain or obtain TS//SCI clearance
  • Work Location- This is a fully onsite role. Candidates must be based in or able to commute to our Denver office daily.
  • Travel-employees can expect to travel up to 20% to our Long Beach factory and to vendor sites.
  • Work environment-the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
  • Physical demands-the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you 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.
True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity on any basis protected by applicable state and federal laws. If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us.