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Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

AVTC Group

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

Propulsion Engineer US Citizen / Permanent Resident Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Onsite in Houston Texas - No remote is available * Serve as the Chemical Propulsion Refueling Lead acting as the ...

AVTC Group

Propulsion Engineer Spacecraft

Houston, TX · On-site +1

Propulsion Engineer US Citizen/Permanent Resident Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Extensive knowledge in component and system certification and the impacts of component design and operating ...

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Propulsion Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$39.2K

$98.2K

$160K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineer in Houston, TX is $98,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,800.00 and $112,700.00 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.
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The top searched job categories for Propulsion Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Propulsion Engineer jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Propulsion Engineer job openings:

Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,195 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Propulsion Engineer

AVTC Group

Houston, TX • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Job description

Propulsion Engineer
US Citizen / Permanent Resident
Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience
Onsite in Houston Texas - No remote is available
  • Serve as the Chemical Propulsion Refueling Lead acting as the cross-project point of contact for the Gateway Integrated Refueling Circuit which implements the Refueling architecture.
  • Lead the Gateway Refueling Working Group, involving planning agenda topics related to current, and forward risks, issues, and challenges.
  • Develop a detailed understanding of the Gateway Refueling Requirements Document and apply working knowledge to lead domestic and international partners in technical discussions on requirement compliance.
  • Lead the development and implementation of the Gateway Refueling Concept of Operations.
  • Assist the System Manager in the development of Flight Rules and operational constraints related to Flight operations of the Gateway Station.
  • Communicate mission baseline, mission risk, and issues to mission management teams, across a variety of NASA and commercial partnership leadership.
  • Travel to commercial partners facilities, both domestic and international, for insight/oversight of critical operations and other mission essential technical meetings.
  • Lead presentations and discussions with other discipline sub-systems and working groups related to chemical propulsion refueling needs and designs.

Qualification
  • Typically requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree in Engineering and normally possess 5-10 years of related experience.
  • Spacecraft propulsion experience with a focus on fluid and mechanical aspects
  • Experience in the design, assembly, testing, certification, and operation of space propulsion systems and components
  • Experience coordinating space propulsion systems requirements verification and validation between multiple organizations
  • Basic knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures in the field, such as mechanical system design, engineering drawings and sketches, material selection, testing, and office software
  • Excellent organizational skills, oral and written communication skills, and the ability to coordinate support from a wide range of technical disciplines
  • Confident in knowledge and experience, and able to discuss propulsion topics with subject matter experts
  • Experience with NASA JSC Flight Hardware Life Cycle, Certification, and Engineering processes
  • Knowledge and work experience in a Systems Engineering role in a NASA, DoD, or Aerospace environment
  • Experience with requirements management, verification and validation definition and execution, design trades, risk analysis, and system analysis of space hardware
  • Ability to prepare written documents and to verbally present at various high level meetings
    Requisition Preferences:
  • Familiar with JSC organizations, processes, and procedures
  • Experience with NASA JSC Flight Hardware Life Cycle, Certification, and Engineering processes
  • Experience with requirements management, verification and validation definition and execution, design trades, risk analysis, and system analysis of space hardware
  • Working knowledge of NASA, JSC, and ISS standard practices and requirements including safety, fault tolerance, and unique disciplines
  • Familiarity with NASA/JSC documentation databases and share point sites as well as typical systems engineering software products
  • Experience in technical or team leadership roles
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency may be a requirement for this position.
  • Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.

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