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Propulsion Engineer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer

Oradell, NJ

$100K - $120K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Blauvelt, NY

$99K - $119K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Plainedge, NY

$99K - $119K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Morristown, NJ

$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

Tuxedo Park, NY

$106K - $127K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Helmetta, NJ

$92K - $111K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Lincroft, NJ

$105K - $125K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Nanuet, NY

$99K - $119K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Lakeview, NY

$92K - $111K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Bardonia, NY

$98K - $118K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Jericho, NY

$102K - $122K/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 New York salary details

$44.9K

$112.5K

$183.3K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineer in New York is $112,494.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,300.00 and $129,100.00 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 or specialized propulsion engineers with advanced skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace and defense industries.
Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineer job openings in New York 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 $112,494 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

iRocket (Innovative Rocket Technologies Inc.) is pioneering fully autonomous, fully reusable small launch vehicles to enable responsive, lower-cost access to space. We combine advanced propulsion, reuse, and sustainable propellant technologies to push the frontier of commercial space.
The Role:
We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer to join our propulsion team and contribute to the design, development, testing, and qualification of propulsion systems for our launch vehicles. You will work closely with integration, test, design, and manufacturing teams to bring propulsion systems from concept to flight readiness.
  • Support design, development, and testing of propulsion systems (e.g. liquid rocket engines, pressure-fed or pump-fed systems, component-level systems)
  • Participate in test campaigns, including planning, instrumentation, execution, and post-test analysis
  • Develop and maintain test procedures, control sequences, and configuration files for propulsion testing
  • Troubleshoot issues in propulsion subsystems (fluid, mechanical, thermal) during testing and integration
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical, thermal, controls, electronics, systems) to ensure subsystem integration
  • Perform calculations and simulations to support sizing, performance prediction, and optimization
  • Support Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), Failure Review Boards, and design reviews
  • Implement continuous improvements to increase test efficiency, safety, and reliability
  • Analyze test data, generate reports, and identify corrective actions

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline
  • 2+ years of experience in propulsion, test, or fluid/thermal systems development and testing
  • Familiarity with liquid or hybrid rocket engine systems, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer
  • Experience with instrumentation, sensors, data acquisition, control systems
  • Proficiency with scripting or programming (Python, MATLAB, etc.)
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, and technical specifications
  • Strong problem-solving, data analysis, and communication skills
  • Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and in a fast-paced, evolving environment
  • Experience with cryogenic fluids, high-pressure systems, or oxidizer/fuel systems
  • Experience with CAD, simulation tools (CFD, thermodynamics, structural), or propulsion modeling
  • Familiarity with propulsion test stands, plumbing, valve systems, or turbomachinery
  • Experience in space, launch vehicle, or high-reliability systems
  • Experience in formal test planning, instrumentation, and control software

Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Wellness Resources