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Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Skylimit Systems

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX

This opportunity is ideal for an early-to-mid career Propulsion Engineer who wants hands-on experience supporting the design, analysis, testing, and integration of propulsion systems for human ...

AVTC Group

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

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

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 Sep 1, 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 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.
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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 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,195 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX

Skylimit Systems
See more jobs at Skylimit Systemsexternal

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

About the Role

Join an innovative aerospace engineering team developing next-generation spacecraft and lunar exploration systems. This opportunity is ideal for an early-to-mid career Propulsion Engineer who wants hands-on experience supporting the design, analysis, testing, and integration of propulsion systems for human spaceflight and other advanced space applications.

In this role, you'll work alongside experienced propulsion and systems engineers to support propulsion hardware throughout the product lifecycle. You'll contribute to system design, component selection, analysis, testing, and technical documentation while gaining exposure to the requirements and processes used on human-rated spaceflight programs.


Key Responsibilities

  • Support the design and development of spacecraft propulsion systems and components
  • Perform propulsion system and component analyses involving fluid flow, thermal behavior, pressure, and structural loads
  • Develop and maintain propulsion system requirements, interface documentation, and verification plans
  • Support propulsion hardware testing, including test planning, execution, data analysis, and troubleshooting
  • Assist with the integration and qualification of propulsion components such as thrusters, valves, regulators, tanks, and feed systems
  • Work with systems engineering and safety teams to support propulsion requirements, reliability, and risk assessments
  • Assist with FMEA, fault tree analysis, hazard assessments, and other system safety activities
  • Support engineering reviews, design trades, and technical presentations
  • Collaborate with manufacturing and test teams to support hardware fabrication, integration, and acceptance testing
  • Work with suppliers and internal engineering teams to resolve technical issues and support propulsion hardware development
  • Prepare technical documentation, analysis reports, and verification evidence throughout the product lifecycle


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
  • 2+ years of experience in propulsion, fluid systems, thermal engineering, mechanical systems, or a related aerospace field
  • Working knowledge of propulsion fundamentals, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer
  • Experience with aerospace hardware development, testing, or integration
  • Ability to interpret engineering analyses and apply results to design decisions
  • Familiarity with engineering documentation, requirements, and verification processes
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environment


Preferred Qualifications

  • B.S. Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
  • Experience with spacecraft or launch vehicle propulsion systems
  • Familiarity with high-pressure fluid systems, propellant systems, valves, regulators, or propulsion plumbing
  • Experience with analysis tools such as GFSSP, Easy5, ANSYS/Fluent, Thermal Desktop, MATLAB, or similar software
  • Experience with CAD tools and mechanical design
  • Familiarity with FMEA, FTA, hazard analysis, or other aerospace safety processes
  • Experience supporting NASA, human-rated, or other highly regulated aerospace programs
  • Exposure to propulsion hardware manufacturing, qualification, or acceptance testing


Why Join?

  • Work on advanced propulsion systems supporting the future of human spaceflight and lunar exploration
  • Gain hands-on experience across propulsion design, analysis, testing, and integration
  • Collaborate with experienced aerospace engineers on complex, mission-critical systems
  • Develop expertise in human-rated spacecraft engineering and propulsion technologies
  • Join an innovative, fast-paced environment with opportunities for technical growth and career advancement


Interested in learning more? We'd love to connect and discuss this opportunity further.