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Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Busek Co Inc

Research Engineer

Natick, MA · On-site

Busek is seeking a talented and motivated Research Engineer to join our cutting-edge propulsion team. This position focuses on the development, testing, and design of advanced thrusters, propellants ...

Busek

Research Engineer

Natick, MA · On-site

Busek is seeking a talented and motivated Research Engineer to join our cutting-edge propulsion team. This position focuses on the development, testing, and design of advanced thrusters, propellants ...

Actalent

Test Engineer

Boston, MA

Test Engineer This Test Engineer role supports the development, planning, execution, and oversight of spacecraft hardware testing for advanced propulsion and aerospace systems. You will design and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

North Scituate, MA

$104K - $125K/yr

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

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Cumberland, RI

$95K - $114K/yr

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

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Woburn, MA

$107K - $129K/yr

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

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

North Pembroke, MA

$103K - $123K/yr

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

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Chelsea, MA

$107K - $128K/yr

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

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Pinehurst, MA

$107K - $128K/yr

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

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Salem, MA

$107K - $128K/yr

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

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Newton, MA

$108K - $129K/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 21-40

All JobsPropulsion Engineer JobsPropulsion Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Propulsion Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$44.5K

$111.7K

$182K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineer in Boston, MA is $111,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,600.00 and $128,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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 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.
More about Propulsion Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Propulsion Engineer jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Propulsion Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Propulsion Engineer jobs in Boston, MA? For Propulsion Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Propulsion Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Propulsion Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $111,709 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Full Stack Developer Co-Op Spring 2027

Specter Aerospace

Boston, MA • On-site

Other

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Salary: $23-$30hr

Role Summary

Specter Aerospace is seeking a Full Stack Developer Co-op (4-6+ month cycle) to develop software that connects engine test facility control systems, databases, and user interfaces. This role offers experience with application development, data integration, Python-based data processing, testing, and documentation.

The successful candidate will work at the intersection of software, controls, and propulsion engineering. The role will support existing PLC, database, and front-end systems without replacing the responsibilities of dedicated front-end or PLC/controls engineers.


About Specter Aerospace

Specter Aerospace is building the next generation of hypersonic vehicles for U.S. Forces and Allies. Specter is headquartered just north of Boston in Peabody, MA where itleveragesits advanced propulsion technologies, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to rapidly develop supersonic and hypersonic systems.OurFull Stack DeveloperCo-op will have a choice to be based in our Peabody office orinour Boston office in the Seaport district.Funded by a mix of government R&D organizations and private funding, Specter is expanding its team in preparation for flight testing and full-scale production.

Specter offers a wide diversity of tasks, projects, and technical exposure, all while providing co-ops with the same resources and project ownership as our full-time staff members. Our co-ops work closely with experienced engineers and scientists to complete projects that are critical to the mission of the company.


Role Responsibilities

  • Develop Python code to post-process, analyze, and visualize engine and test data.
  • Develop software that connects PLC systems, databases, data servers, and user interfaces.
  • Process and manage large engine and facility datasets.
  • Work with controls and propulsion engineers to define software interfaces, data requirements, and system functionality.
  • Support dashboards and other tools used tomonitorfacility operations and review engineering data.
  • Develop testing protocols for software shakedown, debugging, and validation.
  • Participate in technical meetings and take ownership of assigned projects from implementation through testing and documentation.


Required Qualifications

  • Pursuing a bachelors degree in computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, or an equivalent field.
  • Familiarity with fundamental software development principles and object-oriented programming.
  • Experience programming in Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, or a comparable language.
  • Familiarity with databases, APIs, data processing, or full-stack application development.
  • Familiarity with user-interface design and data visualization.
  • Experience with software testing, debugging, and technical documentation.
  • Comfort working independently in a fast-paced environment with changing requirements.
  • Strong collaborative skills and a drive to produce high-quality work.
  • Eligible to obtain andmaintaina U.S. Secret security clearance; U.S. citizenship isrequired.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Previousapplicable professional, research, or student-team experience.
  • Experience using Python to post-process, analyze, or visualize engineering data.
  • Experience storing, processing, or visualizing large datasets.
  • Experience developing front-end applications using JavaScript, TypeScript, React, or a comparable framework.
  • Experience developing back-end services or APIs using Python, Node.js, or similar technologies.
  • Experienceintegrating software applications with PLCs, databases, or data servers.
  • Familiarity with time-series databases such asInfluxDB, relational databases, or industrial data systems such as SCADA.
  • Experience with version-control systems such as Git.
  • Comfort writing technical documentationregardinginternal code development, system integration, and user procedures.


EEO Statement:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.