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Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Propulsion Test Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

ABOUT THE JOB Anduril's Propulsion Manufacturing Engineering Team is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer to join our team. The propulsion manufacturing test team is responsible for high scale ...

Anduril Industries

Propulsion Test Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

ABOUT THE JOB Anduril's Propulsion Manufacturing Engineering Team is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer to join our team. The propulsion manufacturing test team is responsible for high scale ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Tustin, CA

$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

Glendora, CA

$100K - $120K/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

Silverado, CA

$104K - $124K/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

Calimesa, CA

$102K - $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

Orange, CA

$105K - $126K/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

Wrightwood, CA

$96K - $115K/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

Wildomar, CA

$93K - $112K/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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All JobsPropulsion Engineer JobsPropulsion Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Propulsion Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$42.8K

$107.3K

$174.7K

How much do propulsion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for propulsion engineer in Riverside, CA is $107,274.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,100.00 and $123,100.00 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 roles or those with specialized skills in aerospace or rocket propulsion can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.
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What job categories do people searching Propulsion Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Propulsion Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:

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Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Propulsion Engineer job openings:

Propulsion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Propulsion Engineer job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,274 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Propulsion Engineer, Electric

DZYNE Technologies

Irvine, CA • On-site

$112K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

About DZYNE
DZYNE Technologies is leading the future of autonomous defense. Based in Irvine, California, we develop and manufacture advanced airborne and ground-based defense solutions deployed in over 50 countries. Backed by U.S. Government Programs of Record, our technologies are field-proven, scalable, and production-ready.
We're growing fast, and looking for innovators ready to make an impact. At DZYNE, you'll join a culture built on collaboration, integrity, and purpose. We celebrate wins, value diverse perspectives, and support every team member's success.
Ready to do work that matters? Join us.
Position Title: Propulsion Engineer, Electric
Location: Irvine, CA
Work Arrangement: On-site
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Electric Propulsion Engineer to support the design, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for Group 1-2 electric aircraft. This role focuses on selecting, tuning, and validating ducted fans, propellers, motors, motor controllers, and battery systems to achieve performance requirement for new aircraft designs.
Required Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Lead the selection, sizing, and integration of electric propulsion components including ducted fans, open propellers, motors, motor controllers, and batteries.
  • Perform system-level trade studies to balance thrust, efficiency, thermal performance, weight, and mission endurance.
  • Conduct tuning, calibration, and performance optimization of motors and motor controllers across varying load conditions and flight profiles.
  • Develop propulsion test plans and support bench testing, ground testing, and flight testing activities.
  • Analyze test data and generate recommendations to improve system reliability, safety margins, and energy efficiency.
  • Collaborate closely with aerodynamics, airframe, avionics, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of propulsion systems.
  • Support the creation of technical documentation including specifications, integration guides, and validation reports.
  • Contribute to failure mode analysis, thermal modeling, and risk mitigation related to electric propulsion hardware.
  • Maintain awareness of emerging technologies, supplier capabilities, and best practices in electric propulsion for small, unmanned aircraft

Required Skills/Qualifications:
  • 5-7 years of direct experience in electric propulsion within the aerospace or UAV industry.
  • Hands-on experience selecting and tuning ducted fans, propellers, motors, ESCs, and batteries for Group 1-2 aircraft.
  • Strong familiarity with propulsion performance metrics including thrust, RPM, torque, efficiency, voltage sag, and thermal behavior.
  • Experience with propulsion modeling tools and instrumentation for data capture.
  • Proven ability to diagnose and resolve propulsion-related integration and performance issues.

Preferred Skills/Qualifications:
  • Fluency in MATLAB
  • Fluency in design in 3D CAD system. SolidWorks preferred.

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

Clearance Level Required: None
Export Control / ITAR Requirement:
This position requires access to information and technology subject to U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). As a result, employment is contingent upon meeting applicable export control eligibility requirements and compliance obligations.
Travel Required: Less Than 10%.
Working Conditions:
The diversity of work conditions may range from an environment where there is little or no physical discomfort, such as a general office environment, to warehouse and other facilities.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job:
  • Must have the ability to stop, stand, climb, occasionally lift a minimum of 25 lbs.
  • Involves movement between departments, floors, and worksites to facilitate work.

Work Authorization Requirement:
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for current or future employment visa sponsorship.
Salary: $112,000 - $153,000 annually
Salary depends on relevant work experience, education, training, essential skills, and/or other factors such as specialized or high-demand professions. In addition to the annual salary, the position will be eligible for an annual bonus. The pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of salary or annual bonus.
Benefits:
Our benefits are DZYNE'ed for your overall health and financial wellness. DZYNE offers a comprehensive healthcare benefits package. Base dental, vision, life, accident, disability, and other core benefits are fully covered by DZYNE. DZYNE provides paid time off and paid holidays. Additionally, DZYNE offers a 401 (k) plan with an employer match and immediate vesting.
DZYNE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, DZYNE Technologies complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which our company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.
#LI-ONSITE
Pay Range: $112,000 - $153,000 per year

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