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Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Principal Build & Release Engineer

Evendale, OH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ground every capability in the realities of aero engine, propulsion, and turbomachinery engineering, integrating AI with CFD, FEA, thermal and structural analysis, engine and test data, model-based ...

Principal Build & Release Engineer

Evendale, OH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ground every capability in the realities of aero engine, propulsion, and turbomachinery engineering, integrating AI with CFD, FEA, thermal and structural analysis, engine and test data, model-based ...

Showing results 21-40

Propulsion Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$39K

$97.8K

$159.2K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineer in Ohio is $97,755.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $112,200.00 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 Ohio?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,755 per year, or $47 per hour.

EO/IR Phenomenology & Signature Analysis Engineer with Security Clearance

OSAAVA Services

Dayton, OH • On-site

Contractor

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Location: Wright-Patterson AFB / NASIC – Dayton, OH 45433
Work Environment: On-site
Employment Type: Full-Time
Security Clearance: Active TS/SCI Required POSITION OVERVIEW OSAAVA Services is seeking a Thermal / Infrared Modeling Engineer to support advanced infrared analysis and modeling efforts at the National Air and Space Intelligence Center (NASIC) at Wright-Patterson AFB. We are looking for an engineer, scientist, or technical analyst with hands-on experience in infrared (IR) signature analysis, plume modeling, EO/IR systems, thermal or optical analysis, phenomenology, or related physics-based modeling and simulation. Your current job title does not need to match this position. Professionals coming from aerospace engineering, EO/IR, optical or infrared systems, propulsion, thermal analysis, MASINT, signature analysis, phenomenology, or modeling and simulation may have highly relevant experience. RESPONSIBILITIES • Analyze Persistent Infrared (PIR) and infrared (IR) target intensity signatures and associated observed phenomena. • Analyze target signature data using empirical, measured, and modeled datasets. • Develop and evaluate plume and infrared signature models. • Utilize plume modeling codes, computational models, and analytical tools to characterize target signatures, IR phenomena, and plume behavior. • Compare modeled results against observed or empirical signature data. • Study target-related infrared signature phenomena using relevant technical datasets, including NASIC/GSPM data where applicable. • Perform specialized and special-case modeling based on analytical and mission requirements. • Evaluate and interpret complex modeling and simulation results. • Develop technical reports documenting analytical methodologies, assumptions, findings, and results. • Prepare technical data packages and supporting analytical products. • Develop and maintain relevant model/code input and output files. • Collaborate with engineers, scientists, intelligence analysts, technical SMEs, and government stakeholders. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS • Active TS/SCI security clearance. • 3+ years of relevant professional experience in infrared signature analysis, plume modeling, EO/IR, MASINT, phenomenology, thermal/optical modeling, aerospace modeling, or a closely related technical discipline. • Hands-on experience with infrared analysis, signature modeling, plume modeling, or closely related physics-based modeling and simulation. • Experience working with empirical, measured, or modeled technical data. • Experience using computational modeling codes, simulation software, scientific analysis tools, or similar technical modeling environments. • Ability to analyze complex physical phenomena and interpret modeling results. • Ability to develop clear technical reports, data packages, and supporting analytical products. • Ability to work full-time and on-site at Wright-Patterson AFB / NASIC in Dayton, Ohio. HIGHLY DESIRED EXPERIENCE Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly valuable: • Persistent Infrared (PIR)
• Infrared (IR) signature analysis
• Plume modeling
• Missile or rocket plume analysis
• Propulsion or exhaust signature analysis
• EO/IR systems
• Electro-optical sensor analysis
• Thermal signature modeling
• Optical or radiometric analysis
• Physics-based modeling and simulation
• Target signature characterization
• Infrared phenomenology
• MASINT / signature intelligence
• NASIC or GSPM datasets Previous experience supporting NASIC, the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), Intelligence Community, or other Department of Defense technical missions is highly desired. WHO SHOULD APPLY We recognize that professionals performing this type of highly specialized work may have very different job titles. Relevant backgrounds may include: Aerospace Engineer • Modeling & Simulation Engineer • Thermal Engineer • Infrared Engineer • Optical Engineer • EO/IR Engineer • Systems Engineer • Research Engineer • Research Scientist • Modeling Engineer • Signature Analyst • Signature Modeling Engineer • Plume Modeling Engineer • Propulsion Engineer • MASINT Analyst • PIR Analyst • Phenomenology Analyst • Infrared Signature Analyst If your experience involves infrared signatures, PIR, plume behavior, thermal or optical phenomena, EO/IR systems, or physics-based modeling, we encourage you to apply even if you have never held a "Thermal / Infrared Modeling Engineer" or "PIR Analyst" title. Active TS/SCI clearance is required for this position. ABOUT OSAAVA SERVICES OSAAVA Services is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) supporting the U.S. government and defense community across Space, Cybersecurity, IT Service Management, and mission-focused technical services. Qualified candidates interested in supporting this opportunity at NASIC are encouraged to apply.