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Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

$100K/yr

Analysis, Avionics, Build Engineering, Integration & Test Engineering, Life Support Systems, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, Structures Design & Engineering ...

$100K/yr

Analysis, Avionics, Build Engineering, Integration & Test Engineering, Life Support Systems, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, Structures Design & Engineering ...

$100K/yr

Analysis, Avionics, Build Engineering, Integration & Test Engineering, Life Support Systems, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, Structures Design & Engineering ...

$100K/yr

Analysis, Avionics, Build Engineering, Integration & Test Engineering, Life Support Systems, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, Structures Design & Engineering ...

Nuclear Engineer

Anahola, HI

$105K - $126K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

$97K - $117K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hana, HI

$108K - $130K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hauula, HI

$91K - $109K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Prepares, operates, maintains, and repairs vessel propulsion equipment and other machinery properly ... Maintains engineering logs and fuel and lube reports. OTHER DUTIES/FUNCTIONS: * Receives and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hanamaulu, HI

$97K - $116K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Kaneohe, HI

$97K - $117K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

$97K - $116K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Haleiwa, HI

$101K - $121K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Keaau, HI

$96K - $115K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Holualoa, HI

$100K - $120K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

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Showing results 1-20

Propulsion Engineer information

See Hawaii salary details

$42.6K

$106.8K

$174K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineer in Hawaii is $106,831.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,700.00 and $122,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior propulsion engineers, aerospace engineers, and specialized mechanical engineers in the aerospace and defense industries can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-paying sectors or companies. These roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and expertise in propulsion systems, with salaries influenced by location, company size, and project complexity.

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 does a propulsion engineer do?

A propulsion engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains propulsion systems for vehicles such as rockets, aircraft, or spacecraft. They analyze performance data, select appropriate materials, and ensure systems meet safety and efficiency standards, often using tools like CAD software and simulation programs. This role requires strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and engineering principles.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Propulsion engineers working in senior roles at major aerospace or defense companies, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other incentives. These roles typically require advanced degrees and a strong track record in propulsion systems design and development.

What is the salary of a propulsion engineer?

The salary of a propulsion engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior propulsion engineers or those working in aerospace and defense industries may earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 with specialized skills and certifications.

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.
What are popular job titles related to Propulsion Engineer jobs in Hawaii? For Propulsion Engineer jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion Engineer jobs in Hawaii look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion Engineer jobs in Hawaii are:
Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineer job openings in Hawaii as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,831 per year, or $51.4 per hour.
Fall 2026 Graduate Engineer Internship/Co-op

Fall 2026 Graduate Engineer Internship/Co-op

SpaceX

$100K/yr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

FALL 2026 GRADUATE ENGINEER

As a Graduate Engineer, you will be responsible for working on creative solutions to real aerospace challenges. You will be given as much responsibility as our full-time engineers and will be an integral part of the team. If you've demonstrated a commitment to academic success and motivation to apply your knowledge outside of the classroom, you are a great candidate!

Graduate Engineer roles are available with a variety of engineering teams across the company including design, manufacturing and operations at Bastrop, TX; Cape Canaveral, FL; Hawthorne (Los Angeles), CA; Irvine, CA; McGregor (Waco), TX; Redmond, WA; Starbase, TX and Vandenberg, CA.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 6+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable)
  • Enrolled in a graduate program by the start of employment and holds a bachelor's degree in engineering, physics or math discipline
  • Applicant for this graduate engineer position must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful permanent resident (e.g., green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • GPA of 3.5 or above
  • 9+ months experience of application of technical skills outside of the classroom (examples: laboratory, research, extracurricular project teams, volunteering, personal projects or prior internship/work experience)
  • Ability to work well in an integrated collaborative team environment, including frequent interactions with technicians, other engineers, and managers
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic professional setting with changing needs and requirements

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Able to work full time, onsite for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning in August or September 2026
  • Able to provide own transportation for positions at Bastrop, Cape Canaveral, McGregor and Vandenberg locations

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:

Graduate Engineer/Completed Bachelor's: $83,200.00/per year Graduate Engineer/Completed Master's: $91,000.00/per year Graduate Engineer/Completed PhD: $100,100.00/per year

Your salary will be determined by academic level. Pay is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs, as well as access to our comprehensive medical coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan. Students joining SpaceX through our graduate engineer program will receive the opportunity to attend presentations from company leaders, social and networking events, as well as professional and personal development trainings. Graduate Engineers are also eligible for paid company holidays. SpaceX offers 10 or more paid holidays per year.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS:

DRAGON : Dragon is the most advanced human-rated spacecraft in the world. This capsule currently delivers critical science, cargo and crew safely to and from International Space Station, but further iterations and new designs will likely be necessary to extend humankind's reach to the moon, Mars, and beyond. This program includes roles in: Analysis, Avionics, Build Engineering, Integration & Test Engineering, Life Support Systems, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, Structures Design & Engineering, Supply Chain Engineering and more.

FALCON : The Falcon program tackles space exploration's toughest problems through the ongoing development of our reusable launch vehicles, Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy. These vehicles are currently responsible for delivering commercial, national security, and NASA satellites into orbit, as well as supply critical science, supplies, and crew to the International Space Station. This program includes roles in: Analysis, Avionics, Build Engineering, Components Engineering, Integration & Test Engineering, Launch Site Operations & Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, Recovery Engineering, Structures Design & Engineering, Supply Chain Engineering and more.

STARLINK: At SpaceX, we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to 1M+ users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system - thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. This program includes roles in: Analysis, Avionics, Components Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Integration & Test Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Operations Engineering, Structures Design & Engineering, Supply Chain Engineering and more.

STARSHIELD - Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use, Starshield is designed for government use, with an initial focus on earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads. As an intern on the Starshield team, you will be working on advanced development programs in support of U.S. National Security. This program includes roles in: Avionics, Build Engineering, Components Engineering, Integration & Test Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Design & Engineering, Structures Engineering, and more.

STARSHIP: The Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket - collectively referred to as Starship - represent a fully reusable transportation system designed to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars and beyond. As the most powerful launch system ever developed, Starship will be able to carry up to 100 people on long-duration, interplanetary flights. Starship will also enable satellite delivery, the development of a Moon base and point-to-point transport here on Earth. This program includes roles in: Analysis, Avionics, Automation & Controls, Build Engineering, Civil Engineering, Components Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Launch Site Operations & Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, Structures Design & Engineering, Supply Chain Engineering, Test Engineering and more.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.


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